In a major step toward modernizing burial practices and improving the state of public cemeteries, the Gweru City Council has announced plans to establish a modern crematorium at one of its cemeteries. This comes as part of a broader initiative aimed at upgrading and maintaining graveyards across the city, many of which have been criticized for falling into disrepair.
Mayor Martin Chivhoko confirmed the development, stating that the crematorium is a key component of the council’s long-term vision for cemetery management.
“Yes, we have plans for a modern crematorium at one of our cemeteries,” Chivhoko said in an interview. “This is part of our comprehensive plan to spruce up and modernise our burial sites, some of which have been neglected for years.”
He revealed that the council is currently engaged in various cemetery maintenance activities. These include grass cutting, bush clearing, and road rehabilitation within burial grounds. In addition, plans are underway to construct fences around cemeteries to improve security and aesthetics, as well as the building of essential facilities such as ablution blocks and waiting rooms for mourners.
“We are also working towards implementing a computerised database system for graves and burials,” Chivhoko said. “This will allow for better tracking, planning, and preservation of burial records, making the process more transparent and efficient for residents.”
The initiative comes at a time when most local authorities in Zimbabwe are grappling with a growing demand for burial space. As urban populations swell and available land becomes scarce, councils are facing increasing pressure to come up with sustainable alternatives. However, cremation — a practice that could help alleviate land pressure — remains unpopular in Zimbabwe, largely due to deep-seated cultural and religious beliefs that favour traditional burials.
Gweru to Establish Modern Crematorium as Part of Cemetery Upgrade Plan
Despite this resistance, the Gweru City Council believes the time has come to offer residents a modern, environmentally conscious alternative. By establishing a crematorium, the city hopes to open a new chapter in burial practices, potentially easing the burden on already crowded cemeteries.
Not everyone is convinced, however. Residents’ groups and civic organizations have emphasized that before embarking on major projects like a crematorium, the council must first address the immediate and visible neglect at existing cemeteries.
David Chikore, director of the Gweru United Progressive Residents and Ratepayers Development Association, expressed concern over the current state of the city’s cemeteries.
“The cemeteries in the city are in a sorry state,” Chikore said. “Council should ensure that the graveyards are maintained to higher standards. We should learn to respect the dead by keeping these areas clean and dignified.”
Gweru director noted that many cemeteries lack basic amenities such as toilets, forcing grieving families and funeral attendees to resort to using nearby bushes — a situation he described as both embarrassing and undignified.
“It is disheartening that there are no ablution facilities in most of our cemeteries. This is something that should be urgently addressed, especially considering the emotional state of mourners,” he said.
He also urged the council to engage the public more meaningfully before introducing cremation, given the sensitivity of the matter. “This is not just a technical issue; it’s deeply cultural. Community consultation is vital before such facilities are built.”
Despite the criticism, many observers see the plan as a bold and necessary step in the right direction. The idea of a modern crematorium aligns with global trends in urban planning, especially in cities where space is becoming increasingly limited.
Environmental advocates have also expressed support for cremation, pointing out that it reduces the carbon footprint associated with traditional burials, which often involve cement vaults, metal coffins, and large swaths of land.
As Gweru City Council balances tradition with modern demands, the crematorium plan could become a test case for how local authorities across Zimbabwe manage the future of burial in urban environments.
The council is expected to release more details in the coming months, including the proposed site for the crematorium, cost estimates, and projected timelines for implementation. In the meantime, residents and stakeholders will be watching closely to see whether Gweru can deliver on its promise to restore dignity and modernity to its final resting places.
Source- Newsday
