Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo celebrate newly repaired ash wall at Braamfontein Cemetery, thanks to the Friends of Johannesburg Cemeteries
The Friends of Johannesburg Cemeteries took on the challenge of repairing the ash wall when it was damaged by vandals. Now it is completely repaired and the city is stepping in to beef up security to make sure it doesn't happen again.
Although cemeteries are meant to serve as spaces that allow for the comfort of those living, a visit to one within the city is a stark reminder of just how neglected these places of remembrance truly are.
Read more: Heartbreak as ash walls desecrated again in Braamfontein Cemetery
Over a year ago, the city’s oldest burial site, Braamfontein Cemetery, experienced devastating desecration and vandalism when about 4 000 ash walls were ransacked and destroyed. This uncaring act galvansied the Friends of Johannesburg Cemeteries (FOJC), who took on the task of the restoration of each of these vandalised sites of remembrance.
It’s because of the efforts of the volunteers of this non-profit, that, on October 29, Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) was able to invite guests to see the restored ash walls of this cemetery.
In his keynote address, the managing director of JCPZ, Thanduxolo Mendrew, wasted no time in thanking FOJC for stepping in and tirelessly working to restore the desecrated graves. “I thank you for your perseverance, in spite of all the challenges you experienced.” He explained that the organisation had shared with the city the time consuming and meticulous process they undertook to make sure everything was put back in its correct space. This, he said, ensured that the city was proud to show off all the work they had put in.
Also read: JCPZ launches campaign to combat cemetery vandalism and disrespect.
It’s Mendrew’s opinion, that the vandalism the cemetery faced exposed people’s lack of understanding of cemeteries. He pointed out that cemeteries and crematoriums are places that hold profound significance, serving as reminders of our shared humanity. The signs of life and connections that bind us across generations. “They are not just final resting places, they are reflections of our history, values, and our culture.” He went on to share that each tombstone and memorial wall tells a story of love and sacrifice, and is a testament of times lived, dreams pursued, and relationships forged. “These spaces are designed to facilitate healing for the departed, as well as those who live and miss them,” he emphasised.
The managing director also said, as custodians of the site, the JCPZ, together with communities, have the shared responsibility to take care of them. This fosters a culture of preserving a heritage. One that helps future generations connect with their past.
To curb the vandalism JCPZ have implemented interventions to avoid similar incidents. They have deployed additional security personnel, on a 24hr shift, as well as dedicated security with a K-9 Unit to patrol the cemetery to deter criminal activities. They will also install solar lights for increased visibility at night. He pointed to the need for the increased amount of solar lights, as the cemetery is large.
A team from the entity has also done some repairs on windows and restored panels on the vandalised fencing. Fencing is a crucial part of safeguarding the cemetery, and with allocated budget in place, this will soon see attending to.
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Related article: The restoration of vandalised graves in the ash walls of Braamfontein Cemetery nears completion
