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The deteriorating state of Mooifontein Cemetery continues to be a growing concern, despite ongoing efforts by the local municipality and community groups to address its worsening conditions. Recent reports highlight the cemetery’s increasing disrepair, with the most alarming issue being the formation of a sinkhole that threatens the integrity of gravesites. This development adds to a long list of unresolved issues that have plagued the cemetery for months, drawing the attention of residents and families who are increasingly frustrated by the lack of action to rectify the situation.
One of the most distressing incidents occurred last year when a burst pipe caused extensive water damage, leading to the collapse of several graves. The waterlogged grounds made it impossible for some families to visit their loved ones’ resting places, as the graves caved in and became hazardous. Two families were forced to exhume their deceased relatives and relocate them—one choosing a different section within the cemetery, while the other was left with no choice but to move their loved ones to an entirely new burial site.
A recent visit by Kempton Express revealed that the burst pipe remains unfixed, and the water leakage continues to render large sections of the cemetery inaccessible. “Graves continue to cave in due to the water, making it harder for visitors to pay respects to their loved ones,” said one concerned resident, highlighting the ongoing neglect. The lack of proper maintenance has left the cemetery in a state of disrepair, with families now unable to visit the graves of their deceased relatives with the dignity and respect they deserve.
The cemetery’s proximity to the Vusimuzi informal settlement has compounded its problems. Persistent pollution has become a major issue, with garbage accumulating in sections adjacent to the settlement. While there have been previous cleanup efforts, including a citywide campaign launched by the City of Ekurhuleni in January called “Clean Your Kasi, Manje Namhlanje,” led by Leshaka Manamela, little has been done to improve the situation. The initiative, which was designed to tackle illegal dumping and overgrown vegetation, appears to have had minimal impact on Mooifontein Cemetery, as overgrown grass and litter continue to dominate large sections of the area.
In addition to the municipal-led efforts, the Tembisa Community Forum also organized a cleanup campaign last year, urging Vusimuzi residents to stop dumping waste at the cemetery and to show greater respect for the dead. Unfortunately, their pleas have largely fallen on deaf ears, with little change in the cemetery’s condition. The community’s frustration is mounting, as they continue to witness the degradation of what should be a sacred and dignified place of rest for their loved ones.
The ongoing neglect of Mooifontein Cemetery highlights broader challenges in maintaining public spaces and ensuring respect for the departed. Families and residents are now calling for urgent intervention to restore the cemetery to a place of honor and remembrance. The cemetery’s current state is not only a reflection of inadequate maintenance but also a failure to uphold the dignity of those who have passed. As the situation continues to deteriorate, the community’s calls for action grow louder, urging local authorities to take swift and meaningful steps to resolve the issues and ensure the cemetery is treated with the respect it deserves.
