By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Chegutu — The Municipality of Chegutu has issued a public notice clarifying official fees for tombstone erection and grave construction amid reports that residents are being asked to make unauthorized payments at cemeteries.
In a statement dated 15 August, the local authority said residents and ratepayers are required to pay US$72 for the erection of tombstones or grave construction within municipal cemeteries. The fee must be paid in full at the municipal offices before any work begins.
The municipality expressed concern over allegations that some individuals are demanding US$20 at gravesites from bereaved families. Officials stressed that all legitimate payments should only be made at municipal offices, where receipts are issued.
“Under no circumstances should any payments be made directly at the cemetery,” the notice read.
“Residents are required to present an official receipt when requesting services at the cemetery.”
The municipality urged the public to immediately report any incidents of unauthorized payments to the relevant authorities.