Ngawane Park Cemetery Full, Burial Services Move to New Multi-Cultural Cemetery
The Municipal Council of Manzini takes this opportunity to inform residents of Manzini city, stakeholders and the entire Eswatini nation that the existing cemetery in Ngwane Park has reached its full capacity. This has been exacerbated by a sharp rise in the demand for burial space during the Covid-19 pandemic. The Municipality has, therefore, made the necessary arrangements to open a new cemetery so to accommodate the burial needs of the city’s residents. The new Golf Course Cemetery Extension, whose capacity is over 8,200 graves, is located on remainder 1231, below the municipal animal pound facility near the Municipality’s controlled dumpsite. The cemetery has been carefully designed to respect and accommodate the diverse cultural backgrounds that exist in our city.
…DIFFERENT SECTIONS IN NEW CEMETERY
The new cemetery is divided into several sections for purposes of catering to different needs and preferences. The following is an overview of the various sections within the new cemetery;
- There is a lawn section that is dedicated to adults. The lawn section is meant for people who will want to place only a head stone on the grave and no tombstone. Additionally, there is a separate lawn section that is specifically designated for children; ensuring a respectful and appropriate resting place for our young ones.
- Furthermore, the Municipality has created an adult monument section and a children monument section. These sections will allow families to erect personalised monuments and memorials in remembrance of their loved ones.
- Additionally, an urn section has been included for those who choose cremation as their preferred method of burial. This area provides a tranquil setting for the interment of cremated remains.
- The Municipality also understands that some families may wish to reserve graves for future use. Therefore, a section of the cemetery has been specifically allocated for this purpose. For reservation of graves, families will have to pay for and secure the grave in advance.
- Moreover, the Municipality has set aside a private cemetery section for those who wish to have an exclusive and intimate burial setting. This section will provide privacy and seclusion as desired by the families.
- Lastly, the Municipality has dedicated an Islamic Faith section within the cemetery as a way of recognising and respecting the specific requirements and traditions of our Islamic city citizens.
…FROM NOW ONWARDS, ONLY CITY RESIDENTS WILL BE BURIED
The Municipality would like to state that the relocation of the cemetery comes with a number of changes. All the changes that have been put in place are meant to ensure that the new cemetery serves the needs of city residents and remains a sustainable option for future generations. The following are the changes;
- In order to ensure the longevity of the cemetery and prioritise the burial needs of city residents, Council has made a decision to restrict burial rights to city residents only.
- Proof of residence for a minimum period of six months will be required; in addition to the usual documentation such as a death certificate, national ID for both the person applying for burial space and the deceased, proof of applicant’s relationship with the deceased as well as proof of payment for burial space.
- For burial of property owners’ children, the Municipality will require the deceased’s birth certificate.
- Similarly; for tenants, a lease agreement and utility bill not older than three months will be necessary in order to confirm residency.
- In the case of a tenant’s child, an affidavit confirming residency and the deceased’s birth certificate will be required.
- Residents living in informal settlements will have to provide an affidavit signed by the traditional authorities of that particular area, affirming the deceased’s residency.
…CEMETERY TO LAST OVER 40 YEARS
In the absence of unforeseen pandemics such as Covid-19, the Municipality’s projections point to the fact that the new cemetery will last over 40 years. Double-burials will also be encouraged in order to prolong the cemetery’s lifespan. Residents are, therefore, encouraged to embrace and adopt the practice of double burials so that the city achieves this goal. The Municipality trusts that all citizens will understand the decision that has been taken and that they will afford the urban local government the necessary cooperation as she operationalises the new multi-cultural cemetery. Burial fees remain unchanged at E1,000 for adults and E500 for children. The Municipality would like to assure residents and all stakeholders that she remains committed to providing a dignified and culturally inclusive final resting place for all beloved city citizens.
…STD 5, FORM 3, FORM 5 RESULTS: CONGRATULATIONS TO BEST PERFORMING SCHOOLS
The Municipal Council of Manzini would like to extend its warmest congratulations to all the Manzini city-based schools that achieved a remarkable passing rate this year. It is with immense pride and admiration that we commend your unwavering commitment and dedication towards providing quality education to the future leaders of our beloved city. By constantly achieving such exceptional results, you are not only shaping the future of individual pupils but also contributing to the growth and development of Manzini city as a whole. Our city takes great pride in being home to schools that consistently strive for excellence and produce pupils who are well-prepared to face the challenges that lie ahead. We wish you all continued success in your endeavors and hope that your achievements will serve as an inspiration for others. The Municipal Council of Manzini stands ready to support and partner with the city’s schools in their mission to provide the best possible education for our youth. Congratulations also goes to the individual pupils who performed exceptionally. Indeed, they are our pride. Those who did not perform well are encouraged not to give up. The year 2024 avails another chance to improve, stand out and shine.
