On November 7, 2024, Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini unveiled a statue of the legendary King Shaka Zulu at King Shaka International Airport in Durban. The event was attended by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who spoke of King Shaka's historical significance as a unifier and military strategist who forged the Zulu nation. King Misuzulu expressed pride in honoring his ancestor's legacy and underscored the statue's symbolism in celebrating Zulu heritage and unity among South Africans.

This statue had been a long-awaited project, as the KwaZulu-Natal government first commissioned it over a decade ago. However, there were delays due to disagreements within the Zulu royal family over its portrayal, with some feeling earlier designs did not adequately capture King Shaka's leadership. Recently, with the family’s approval and guidance, the statue was finalized and displayed, marking a momentous tribute to Zulu culture and history.