Bulawayo City Council flags concerns over cemetery sanitation and security

Bulawayo City Council (BCC) has raised concerns over deteriorating infrastructure at several cemeteries and funeral parlours in the city, following inspections conducted during the past month.

According to the latest council minutes, six parlours and multiple cemeteries were assessed, revealing issues such as non-functional ablution facilities and compromised perimeter fencing.

Chairperson of the Health, Housing and Education Committee, Councillor Ntombizodwa Khumalo, expressed frustration that these concerns—particularly regarding fencing and sanitation—have been raised repeatedly in full council meetings without lasting resolution.

Responding to the concerns, Director of Health Services Edwin Mzingwane reported that toilets at Umvutcha Cemetery were now operational following the emptying of a full septic tank, and that Jojo water tanks would soon be installed. However, Luveve Cemetery remains affected by water shortages, with its toilets still closed due to a full septic tank.

Mzingwane also noted that while Nyaradzo Funeral Parlour had previously donated mobile toilets, more sustainable solutions were needed. A palisade fence has been donated for Athlone West Cemetery, while hedges have been planted at other sites. Unfortunately, existing wire fencing has been subject to vandalism, further compromising cemetery security.

The council emphasized the need for improved maintenance and infrastructure investment to ensure dignity and safety at burial sites across the city.