Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa on Thursday said the review follows public outcry over the project's cost - estimated to be $1.4m (£1m).

On Monday, the ministry confirmed plans to install the massive flag and flag pole, to be known as the South African National Monumental Flag, after getting parliamentary approval.

The department described it as a “symbol of nationhood and common identity" with the “potential to unite people”.

Some have however criticised the 100-metre high flag monument as a vanity project.

The opposition Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) last week said the project was a “patently stupid waste of money”.

It criticised the ruling party ANC for its “misguided understanding of what is necessary in South Africa to build social cohesion and inspire pride”.