Graveyards not safe – even for cemetery workers

THE BEREAVED have been warned not to visit Kimberley’s graveyards alone, with concerns even raised over the safety of municipal cemetery workers.

Residents have complained about the poor state of local cemeteries, which are overgrown with grass and frequented by vagrants who sleep next to the graves.

The chairperson of the Griqualand West Hebrew Congregation, Adrian Horwitz, expressed concern over the neglected condition of the graves at West End Cemetery and called for regular maintenance.

He noted that a full-time security guard and groundsman had been employed to care for the Jewish cemetery, in order to prevent vandalism and theft.

Sol Plaatje Municipality spokesperson Thabo Mothibi said that cemetery management was taking steps to improve the grounds and address public concerns. 

“These efforts are aimed at improving the condition of cemeteries and ensuring a respectful environment for both visitors and the departed. The cemetery is being cleaned block by block, including over weekends. Additional equipment, such as new brush-cutting machines, has been procured to enhance the clean-up operation and maintenance,” said Mothibi.

He confirmed that the cemetery grounds were currently not considered safe - even for staff.

“Communities are advised to walk in groups when visiting graves.”

Mothibi added that vagrants were not permitted to sleep in the cemetery.

“There are currently no security personnel on patrol. There have been instances of vandalism, including damage to graves.” 

He also appealed to the public to stop dumping waste at cemeteries.