By Staff Reporter
Harare – A state-of-the-art cemetery featuring mausoleums, cremation, and embalming facilities, along with a dedicated War Veterans Memorial Garden, is set to open in Harare this July.
The Watervlei Memorial Burial Park, located 11 kilometers from Harare City Centre along Seke Road, spans 77 hectares of land.
Of this, 55 hectares have been allocated for graves, with an initial capacity of 35,000 burials in the first phase.
The project is funded through life assurance and pension funds.
The site design adheres to strict environmental guidelines established by the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), which mandated a 200-meter buffer zone from nearby streams and dams to minimize groundwater pollution.
Additionally, graves will feature brick and concrete linings to enhance structural integrity and reduce environmental contamination.
A reserved section for war veterans is part of the initiative to honor their contributions to the liberation struggle.
The Ministry of Home Affairs has approved and supported this effort, emphasizing its importance in preserving the legacy of the nation’s heroes.
The Watervlei Memorial Burial Park has received approval from the Harare City Council, EMA, and all relevant town planning authorities.
Previously, the area was marred by rampant sand poaching, which led to significant land degradation and disrupted the flow of a nearby stream.
The new development is expected to eliminate these issues.
Extensive percolation tests have been conducted to ensure groundwater safety, and servitudes for critical infrastructure, including the Prince Edward pipeline, have been preserved.
The project will create employment opportunities for tombstone sculptors, granite polishers, and other artisans.
The design also incorporates health and environmental considerations, reflecting modern burial practices.
According to Watervlei Burial Park, the cemetery is inspired by the iconic National Heroes Acre and aims to address land-use efficiency and environmental sustainability.
Unlike traditional graves, the multi-layered grave construction and mausoleum designs will minimize soil seepage and maximize vertical space utilization.
A columbarium for cremation services and facilities for embalming will also be provided.
Mausoleums offer a lower environmental impact compared to traditional burials, as they do not disturb the ground or produce emissions associated with cremation. Additionally, they optimize space by storing caskets vertically, requiring less land.
The cemetery will include a central administration center, named *Remembrance Village*, which will feature shops such as a coffee house, florist, stonemason, and gift shop, along with prayer rooms, chapels, and a funeral hall. A secure perimeter fence and an irrigation system using borehole water will help maintain a serene garden environment with trees, shrubs, and lawns for visitors.
Access to the burial park will be facilitated by the construction of a new roundabout on Seke Road. Watervlei Memorial Burial Park has committed to funding the roundabout’s construction to ensure safe and convenient access for users.
The burial park model is expected to be replicated in other regions across the country.
Key stakeholders involved in the project include Amasonic Contractors (Pvt) Ltd, ALROTZA Consultants PBC, and Stone Beatie Munodawafa Studios, who will oversee construction of roads, parking, and other infrastructure.
With its innovative design, modern amenities, and commitment to environmental sustainability, the Watervlei Memorial Burial Park is set to become a landmark in Harare, serving the needs of both Harare and Chitungwiza communities.
