The Zwelethemba community took matters into their own hands at the Zwelethemba Cemetery recently when tombstones and graves were submerged in water.
The incident has left many families reeling as they grapple with the distressing sight of their loved ones’ final resting places devastated.
The founder of Impumelelo Yesizwe, Bridget Siyolo, sounded the call to action on social media, urging community members to come forward and lend a helping hand in clearing the waterlogged area. This grassroots effort garnered widespread support, highlighting the resilience and solidarity of Zwelethemba’s community.
One resident, expressing the collective sentiment, shared on Facebook: “Family members affected are devastated. We are reliving the grief of our loved ones not being with us.” This sentiment echoed through the community, emphasising the emotional toll the incident has taken on those for whom the cemetery is key.
Said Ward 8 Councillor Mimi Williams: “The municipality is fully aware that this has been an ongoing issue. The water-valve situation is complex, and there could be various factors at play. We have already contacted BVM officials, who confirmed that it indeed involved a water valve that needed excavation. However, pinpointing the exact cause is still a challenge due to the multitude of potential factors involved. It’s a situation we find deeply concerning, and we’re determined to get to the bottom of it.”
As the community perseveres in its efforts to reclaim the cemetery, Zwelethemba stands united in its resolve to honour the memories of its departed, and coming days will see collaborative efforts at restoration.
