The Walter Sisulu Square memorial celebrated its 20th year in 2025, but the heritage it was designed to preserve is fading. Walter Sisulu Square is still in a state of dilapidation, one year after an oversight committee highlighted its decaying state. Unesco heritage siteThe Walter Sisulu Square was built in 2005 at a cost of R160 million and was envisioned as a living memorial to the authors of a pivotal document in struggle history. “Walter Sisulu Square has the potential to significantly improve the quality of life for residents of Kliptown by attracting tourists and investors. When addressing the flame lighting ceremony, Johannesburg mayor Dada Morero stated the square would be refurbished by June 2026.