Online Reporter
Raymond Jaravaza, Zimpapers Reporter
A total of 405 burials were recorded across Bulawayo’s seven cemeteries in May, according to the latest figures released by the Bulawayo City Council (BCC).
The city’s burial sites include Luveve Old Cemetery, Luveve Extension Cemetery, Athlone Cemetery, West Park Cemetery, Hyde Park Cemetery, Lady Stanley Cemetery and Umvutsha Cemetery.
Of the 405 burials recorded during the month, Luveve Extension Cemetery accounted for the highest number with 254 burials, followed by Umvutsha Cemetery with 132.
Council’s latest minutes also revealed that Luveve Old Cemetery received several bodies from outside Bulawayo for burial.
“Luveve Old Cemetery recieved bodies from outside Bulawayo as follows: South Africa (12), Tsholotsho (1), Umzingwane (1), Plumtree (1), Mberengwa (2), Insiza (1), Harare (1), Bubi (1) and Botswana (1),” said council in its latest minutes.
The report further noted that two bodies, one male and one female, were cremated during the same period.
Meanwhile, council generated US$6 840 from tombstone installation fees across its cemeteries in May.
The local authority charges US$38 for the installation of each tombstone.
A total of 180 tombstones were installed during the month, with West Park Cemetery recording the highest number at 54, generating US$2 052 in revenue.
At the other end of the scale, Lady Stanley Cemetery recorded the lowest number of installations, with only two tombstones erected at a total cost of US$76.
Despite the revenue generated from cemetery services, councillors raised concerns over the growing presence of vendors operating at burial sites.
Ward 17 Councillor Sikhululekile Moyo and Ward 10 Councillor Khalazani Ndlovu said vending activities should not be allowed at cemeteries, arguing that such operations compromise the dignity and solemnity of burial grounds.
The councillors also called on mourners to adhere to designated burial times and avoid spending extended periods at cemeteries.
The concerns come as council continues to monitor operations at the city’s cemeteries and maintain order at burial sites that serve thousands of residents each year.
