Khumalo family demands action over graves

In an ongoing battle with the City of Ekurhuleni, the Khumalo family is pushing for the preservation of their ancestral graves, located on land that once formed part of their farm, spanning from Duduza to the Mall of Tembisa.

In 2023, the family issued an undertaking notice to the City of Ekurhuleni, calling for the graves to be properly accounted for. “The city must take responsibility for verifying and relocating these graves. This includes appointing an archaeologist or heritage surveyor and ensuring the sites are safeguarded,” stated Vusimuzi Khumalo. He emphasised that the city must bear all costs related to the process to preserve the family’s heritage.

The Khumalos’ complaint, first raised in 2022, sparked an investigation by the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA). During a site inspection, it was revealed that many of the graves have been disturbed, particularly in areas like Tswelopele and Duduza, where RDP houses and informal settlements now stand. The report highlighted that graves on five properties were acknowledged by a 1998 planning report from the Department of Housing and Land Affairs, yet no further action was taken post-construction.

SAHRA issued directives to the city, including conducting a Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey and erecting barricades at potential gravesites. However, the City of Ekurhuleni has pushed back, stating that the notice was premature and required further investigation.

As the Khumalos continue their fight for justice, Khumalo remains resolute: “This is about preserving our heritage and respecting our ancestors. The city cannot ignore this issue any longer.”