Memorial Honors Black South African WWI Servicemen Overlooked for a Century

A new monument in Cape Town commemorates 1,700 Black laborers who died in World War I, addressing a historical oversight.

The Cape Town Labour Corps Memorial was unveiled to honor 1,772 Black South African servicemen who died in non-combat roles during World War I.
These men, denied full recognition due to racial policies of British colonialism and apartheid, were critical in supporting Allied efforts in Africa.
The memorial, made of African hardwood poles engraved with names and service details, stands as a symbol of remembrance and historical correction.
Princess Anne, president of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, led the ceremony, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging these long-overlooked contributions.
Descendants of the servicemen attended the event, expressing pride and relief at finally having their ancestors' sacrifices formally recognized.