Tsakani – Community members of Kwatsaduza have raised concerns about the maintenance of local cemeteries. The majority of these areas are poorly maintained and lack fences.

A resident specifically raised concerns about the Duduza and Geluksdal cemeteries, whose fences were stolen years ago.

“The fences were stolen ages ago and have left these areas undignified. It is a concern now as these should be well-respected areas where loved ones are visited in dignity,” said Clement Maseko.

“We would like to hear from the CoE about this matter. Yes, the fence was stolen, but how best can they help now?”

Maseko said crime in some of these areas has been occurring, saying individuals steal headstones of loved ones. He further explained the need for visible patrolling or security guards in these areas.

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“Having security would prevent a lot from happening. It would frighten thieves as well,” he added.

City of Ekurhuleni spokesperson Zweli Dlamini said the city is in the process of installing new fencing at the Geluksdal Cemetery after the previously installed fencing was stolen.

“The city is busy with Geluksdal fencing, which unfortunately was stolen. Fencing at the Duduza cemeteries will be addressed as soon as funding is received,” said Dlamini.

On the security and maintenance of the cemeteries, Dlamini said the city has already assessed the situation.

“The city has conducted a risk assessment regarding security and submitted all cemetery security needs to the EMPD as the custodian for security.

“The Parks and Cemeteries Department has also submitted the maintenance needs for the cemeteries,” he said.

Dlamini confirmed that funding has been allocated for fencing at Geluksdal Cemetery, while funding for Duduza Cemetery is still pending.

“There are funds available for Geluksdal Cemetery. For Duduza, we do not have allocated capital funding as yet. Once the contractor has been appointed, the implementation is expected to take approximately four weeks to complete,” he said.

He added that residents and stakeholders wishing to request infrastructure improvements can do so through the city’s public participation processes.

“Such requests can be submitted through the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and petition process,” he added.

On measures to prevent vandalism and improve security, Dlamini said the department has submitted all cemetery security needs to the EMPD, which serves as the custodian of security.

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