Gweru City Council has set aside at least $20 000 for the constrction of a new cemetery, amid reports that the city’s 12-hectare Mtapa Cemetery has filled up.
BY Stephen Chadenga
Council’s finance director, Edgar Mwedzi confirmed the development yesterday.
“We have set aside $20 000 for cemetery improvements in the 2018 budget. As you are aware, Mtapa Cemetery is now full and there is need to improve on the available cemeteries, as well as new space for graves,” he said.
Early this year, town clerk, Elizabeth Gwatipedza said the Mtapa Cemetery was now full and that the only space left was for those who have already paid for burial space in advance.
Gwatipedza said burial space was available at Matinunura Cemetery in Mkoba 9, Senga and Mutasa cemeteries.
A report from the local authority shows that 1 654 graves had been bought in advance, mainly by families, who want to be buried close to their relatives.
Most local authorities are struggling with high demand for burial space, as Zimbabweans are generally reluctant to embrace cremation due to cultural beliefs.
