NMBM REOPENS AFFECTED MUNICIPAL CEMETERIES FOR BURIALS.
Published: May 08, 2026<< BACK TO NEWS
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The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality wishes to inform residents and stakeholders that all municipal cemeteries previously affected by adverse weather conditions and flooding have now reopened for burials.
Following the heavy rains, inspections were conducted at cemeteries this morning to assess readiness for burials over the weekend.
The Municipality can confirm that the following cemeteries are now operationally open for burials, as water levels have subsided:
- Forest Hill
- North End
- Motherwell
- Matanzima
- Bloemendal
- Bethelsdorp
- Papenkuils
- Kabah
- Gerald Smith
- Despatch
The temporary suspension was implemented due to adverse weather conditions and flooding, which affected accessibility and safe operations at certain cemetery sites. Following assessments and improvement in conditions, the Municipality has determined that it is now safe to continue with burial services.
Executive Mayor Cllr Babalwa Lobishe has expressed heartfelt sympathy and thanked bereaved families, funeral undertakers and communities for their patience and cooperation during the temporary suspension of burials caused by the recent flooding across the metro.
"We fully understand the emotional strain and uncertainty that this situation placed on many grieving families and affected communities. The reopening of the affected cemeteries brings much-needed relief, and we appreciate the understanding shown by residents while the Municipality prioritised safety assessments and interventions. Our commitment remains to ensure that all burial activities are conducted in a safe, dignified and respectful manner,” said Executive Mayor Lobishe.
Municipal technical teams and environmental health officials continue to conduct ongoing assessments and interventions at affected cemetery sites. While some improvement has been noted in certain areas, a number of sections remain heavily waterlogged and structurally unstable due to persistent ground saturation.
Various mitigation measures remain underway, including water drainage operations, continuous site inspections and technical evaluations to determine when conditions can safely permit the resumption of burial activities. However, it is important to reiterate that cemetery safety assessments are not based solely on visible surface water, but also on underground soil stability, grave integrity, environmental compliance and occupational safety requirements.
The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality remains committed to ensuring that all burial activities are conducted safely, respectfully and in accordance with required health and environmental standards.
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