By Stone Makhema | DA Councillor Metsimaholo Local Municipality
Note to editors: Please find attached English and Sesotho soundbites by Cllr Stone Makhema. Please see the pictures here, here, and here.
Despite a completion date of October 2022, the Amelia Cemetery project in Ward 23 in Metsimaholo is now almost three years behind schedule and far from operational.
Originally, R7.9 million was budgeted for the cemetery’s construction, with an expected completion date of October 2022. However, since the first contractor was appointed in November 2021, little progress has been made.
To date, only a perimeter fence and an incomplete office are visible on-site. The cemetery would have greatly benefitted residents in Wards 1, 19, and 23, who must currently travel long distances to bury their loved ones in Zamdela. Additionally, it would have alleviated pressure on the already congested Zamdela cemeteries, particularly over weekends.
Due to poor project and financial management, as well as inadequate oversight, the appointed contractor requested multiple extensions before ultimately abandoning the site.
In a recent council sitting in December 2024, the ANC-led administration requested an additional R4 million to complete the cemetery.
The people of Amelia cannot wait any longer! The completion of this project is long overdue and must be prioritised immediately.
The DA will continue to monitor progress closely, ensuring proper oversight of the additional budget. Any misuse of funds or further project extensions will be firmly opposed.