Residents of Gweru are up in arms over the Gweru City Council’s proposed 2025 budget, which includes drastic increases in cemetery fees. The planned hikes have sparked widespread concern among residents, who believe the increases are excessive, especially given the current economic climate. Under the proposed budget, the cost of an adult grave would skyrocket to $200, a staggering rise from $52. This represents a 285% increase, which many residents feel is unsustainable.

The proposed fee hikes aren’t limited to adult graves. The cost of burying a child or stillborn would increase to $100, up from $26, while the burial of ashes would rise to $250, compared to $83.20 currently. Even the cost of scattering ashes would increase significantly, jumping to $200 from $52. These drastic increases have left many residents feeling frustrated and worried about how they will afford to pay their respects to loved ones.

As the city council moves forward with the proposed budget, residents are holding out hope that their concerns will be heard and considered. With many already struggling to make ends meet, these additional financial burdens could have far-reaching consequences for the community.