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DELVILLE WOOD MEMORIAL REHABILITATION

The Delville Wood Memorial in Longueval, France, commemorates the sacrifice of the South African Brigade during the Battle of Delville Wood, fought between 15 and 20 July 1916 as part of the Battle of the Somme in the First World War. The battle became one of the defining moments in South Africa’s military history, with thousands of South African soldiers killed, wounded, or missing in action. Today, the memorial stands as a symbol of courage, remembrance, and the enduring ties between South Africa and France.

As part of preparations for the 110th Anniversary Commemoration of the Battle of Delville Wood in July 2026, the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA), in partnership with the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC), the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI), and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC), supported conservation efforts at the Delville Wood Memorial in France.

To strengthen international collaboration, SAHRA concluded a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the CWGC on 30 September 2025, establishing a framework for the ongoing conservation and maintenance of the memorial.

Ahead of the anniversary commemorations, Phase I of the conservation programme focused on essential maintenance and enhancement works to ensure the memorial was presented in a dignified and fitting condition for visitors and commemorative activities. During its July 2026 visit, SAHRA also installed the National Heritage Site badge at the Delville Wood Memorial, further recognising its importance as a site of shared South African heritage and remembrance.

The Delville Wood Memorial remains a powerful symbol of South Africa’s military history and the sacrifices made during the First World War. Through continued collaboration with its partners, SAHRA remains committed to supporting the long-term conservation and preservation of this important international heritage site.