Block 10 shocked at discovery of old graveyard
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Wednesday November 4, 2015 12:50
Children gathering firewood in the area alerted their parents about the find over the weekend, with further confirmation coming from Ipelegeng workers, who stopped their activities in the area and alerted the area councillor.
The graves consist of an area of short grass, littered with stones apparently used for markers. Some residents of the affluent area near the graveyard are upset about unknowingly developing plots and living near the abandoned cemetery.
“Had I known that there were graves here, I would not have bought this plot, or developed it. I would not want to live right next to a graveyard,” said a resident who declined to be named.
Gaborone mayor, Kagiso Thutlwe said he had learnt about the graves from the area councillor, Lesego Mabego. He added that the Town Clerk had also told him that the local authority was aware of the graves.
“The Town Clerk has informed me that they knew about that graveyard before they designed that new location. Those graves were supposed to be fenced even if the process took time. Some of the questions are best answered by the Town Clerk because the issue is new to me,” Thutlwe said.
The Town Clerk, Mpho Mathe, however, yesterday gave a contradictory statement, saying that a report on the graves had only been received on Monday. He said the local authority would find a way of protecting the area.
“This case was reported to us on Monday. It is possible that the graveyard could be found there because that location was a cattle post.
“These cases usually happen and we do investigate them. We will be forced to locate the families of those deceased,” he said.
He said the graveyards are relocated where there is need, but in most cases council protects them.
“People should know that it is not abnormal to find graveyards next to their homes and at times the graves can be identified by people trying to develop their plots.
“A person can be given a new plot if he or she is not comfortable to build in that area,” he said.
Meanwhile area councillor, Lesego Mabego said he was disappointed that residents had found themselves next to the graveyard, without foreknowledge.
“They could have at least informed people rather than keep quiet. We don’t know if they had the consent of the families who buried their relatives there,” he said.
Mabego said some residents felt traumatised by the issue and had reached out for assistance.