The grave of the late Madzibaba Godfrey Nzira has ignited a storm of discussion and controversy in Chitungwiza, 14 years after his burial.
Located in the oldest cemetery in Unit L, Nzira’s final resting place reflects the ongoing influence of social class, even in d3ath.
Convicted of multiple counts of rap3 and released from prison on medical grounds in 2011, Nzira passed away shortly thereafter.
His grave has since become a subject of debate, marked by a striking monument that diverges from traditional burial sites.
Separated by a palisade fence, Nzira’s enclosure occupies approximately 100 square meters, attracting attention amid a graveyard where many headstones are now overgrown with grass and neglected.
A narrow, smooth tarmac path winds through the cemetery, guiding visitors to his grand tombstone while cutting uncomfortably close to other graves.
This footpath, a luxury in a generally overrun graveyard, has raised eyebrows.
Many relatives of nearby deceased individuals contend that the construction of Nzira’s shrine disrespects their loved ones’ resting places.
Critics allege that the building process involved disturbing adjacent graves, raising feelings of anger and mourning amongst affected families.
One mourner expressed her frustration, stating, “The tarmac has intruded on other graves. It’s as if his resting place is deemed more important than the rest. My father’s grave has been affected, and it feels unjust. The council needs to look into this.”
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In response to these allegations, the Nzira family has defended their actions as reported by Newsday.
They assert that they intentionally chose the anthill site for Nzira’s burial, as it was deemed unsuitable by local authorities for other burials.
Family spokesperson Cecil Sinamano clarified that the family purchased 10 plots around the site and received two additional graves from local officials in recognition of Nzira’s contributions during his life.
Sinamano firmly denied claims of desecration, stating, “We used the space we legally acquired and took precautions to prevent disturbance to other graves. We even reached out to Chitungwiza Town Council regarding these concerns.”
A spokesperson for the council confirmed that investigations found no evidence of grave tampering, encouraging those with grievances to engage in dialogue for resolution.
In many African cultures, graves are held sacred, with any form of disturbance seen as a significant violation. The belief in the afterlife imbues grave sites with profound importance, as families routinely visit to honor their deceased.
Talk show host Rebecca Chisamba underscored the sanctity of burial sites within African traditions, emphasizing differing burial customs based on social status.
While the Nzira family’s lavish grave has sparked contention, it also sheds light on the complexities of cultural practices surrounding death and the disparities of social standing among both the living and the deceased.
Watch video of grave below
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1665225217735691
