Municipality Begins Cleanup at Mlungisi Cemetery Following Illegal Dumping

Municipal Teams Intervene After Waste Accumulates

The Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality (EMLM) has begun clearing the Mlungisi Cemetery after repeated illegal dumping left significant amounts of household waste, rubble, and discarded items at the burial site. Municipal teams, supported by heavy machinery, started operations today to remove debris and restore access for visitors.

Residents and families with graves at the cemetery had previously raised concerns about the state of the site, describing blocked pathways and waste accumulating near grave markers.

Extent of Waste and Cleanup Efforts

According to the Municipality, today’s operation responds to ongoing irresponsible dumping. Officials said the scale of waste now requires machinery to assist in removal.

Waste at the site includes household refuse, broken furniture, garden waste, plastic bags, old tyres, alcohol containers, building rubble, and general litter. Some of this is believed to originate from nearby residents and passing vehicles.

“Cemetery clean-ups are part of ongoing maintenance, but the volume of waste at this site required additional resources and equipment,” said a municipal spokesperson.

Municipal Response and Maintenance Plan

EMLM said the cleanup aims to:

• Reopen blocked walkways.

• Remove debris piled between graves and along the cemetery perimeter.

• Restore accessibility for visitors.

Officials emphasised that long-term maintenance requires community cooperation. Residents are urged to stop illegal dumping and report violations, as such practices compromise public resources, including cemetery upkeep, road maintenance, and water services.

Cultural and Community Significance

Cemeteries hold cultural, spiritual, and historical importance in Komani and across the Eastern Cape. Illegal dumping in burial sites is widely seen as disrespectful and can cause distress for families who visit the graves of loved ones.

The Municipality highlighted that preserving these public spaces supports dignity, community heritage, and environmental protection.

Community Partnership and Awareness

EMLM officials encouraged residents to:

• Use designated refuse disposal points.

• Follow the municipality’s weekly waste collection schedule.

• Report illegal dumping when it occurs.

Environmental groups and community leaders in Komani have previously called for stronger civic cooperation, better monitoring, and public education on waste management, particularly in high-risk areas such as cemeteries, open fields, and riverbanks.

Next Steps

Municipal teams will continue work throughout the cemetery today, with further assessments planned to determine whether additional cleaning phases will be necessary. EMLM said ongoing community vigilance and cooperation remain essential for maintaining clean and respectful public spaces.