Online Reporter
Peter Matika, [email protected]
FOR many families, the loss of a loved one brings not only grief and emotional pain, but also the daunting burden of meeting funeral costs. In communities across Bulawayo, women-led burial societies have quietly emerged as a lifeline, pooling resources, offering comfort and ensuring that no family faces bereavement alone.
On Saturday, those efforts received a major boost when the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Professor Mthuli Ncube, donated various public events materials and essential items to 16 burial societies in Ward 1.
The donation, handed over during a colourful ceremony attended by community leaders, beneficiaries and local stakeholders at Stanley Hall in Makokoba, is expected to strengthen the capacity of the burial societies, which have become a vital social safety net for many residents facing the financial and emotional burden associated with bereavement.
Beyond providing practical assistance during times of loss, the societies have evolved into important community institutions that promote solidarity, inclusivity and collective responsibility, while empowering women to take a leading role in supporting families and vulnerable members of society.
Prof Ncube paid tribute to the women for their vision, determination and commitment to uplifting one another through organised community structures.
He said the formation of burial societies demonstrated the resilience and ingenuity of women who had identified a pressing need within their communities and responded by creating sustainable support systems.
“I would like to congratulate and commend all the women represented here today for establishing and maintaining these burial societies. What you have done is a remarkable example of community organisation and mutual support. It shows that when people unite around a common purpose, they can create solutions that improve lives and provide comfort to those in need.
“Death is an inevitable reality of life, and when it occurs, families are often confronted not only by emotional pain but also by significant financial obligations. In many cases, people struggle to gather the necessary materials and resources required for a decent burial.
“These societies ensure members do not face those challenges alone. They provide practical assistance, emotional support and a sense of security, knowing that there are people who will stand with you when tragedy strikes,” said Prof Ncube.
For years, women have been at the centre of burial societies, dedicating their time and resources to ensuring that communities remain united during their most difficult moments. Their efforts have helped strengthen family support systems while fostering a culture of compassion and shared responsibility.
Prof Ncube said the donation was intended to complement the efforts already being made by the women and enhance the effectiveness of their organisations.
“As Government, we recognise the value of grassroots initiatives that promote social cohesion and community development. We appreciate the role being played by these women in strengthening families and supporting vulnerable members of society. I encourage you to continue working together, growing your societies and maintaining the spirit of unity that has brought you this far,” he said.
Prof Ncube applauded the women for taking the initiative to seek assistance and advocate for the needs of their members.
“It is important for communities to identify their challenges and engage relevant stakeholders for support. By coming forward and expressing your needs, you have shown leadership and a desire to improve the welfare of your members. That is commendable and deserving of support,” he said.
The beneficiaries, many of whom described the donation as timely and transformative, expressed profound gratitude for the assistance, saying it would enhance their ability to continue serving families when they need support most.
Ms Sithandiwe Ncube from Greens District Burial Society said the donation would significantly strengthen the society’s ability to respond to the needs of members during difficult times.
Another beneficiary, Mrs Dominica Muringi from the City Centre Burial Society, described the donation as a reflection of responsive leadership and genuine concern for the welfare of ordinary citizens.
Mrs Muringi said burial societies had become indispensable institutions within communities, particularly at a time when many families were facing economic challenges.
Also expressing appreciation was Mrs Catherine Muchicho from Nehanda District Burial Society, who highlighted the broad impact the donation would have across different segments of the community.
Mrs Muchicho said the support would strengthen the spirit of inclusivity and compassion that underpins the work of burial societies.
For years, burial societies have served as a pillar of support in many communities, enabling members to pool resources and assist one another when death strikes.
