Keypoints:
- Windhoek cemetery party sparks outrage
- City pledges strict monitoring, penalties
- Cemeteries declared sacred, no gatherings
AUTHORITIES in Namibia’s capital, Windhoek, have issued a stern warning against parties and other social events in cemeteries after a weekend gathering at Gammams cemetery drew public outrage.
The City of Windhoek said the incident, which featured seating, alcohol and loud celebrations, violated the sanctity of the burial ground and broke local regulations.
Resident decries ‘disgraceful’ scene
A Windhoek resident who encountered the gathering described it as ‘nothing short of disgraceful’.
In a Facebook post, she recounted finding car boots open, music playing and people drinking along the cemetery’s main path, comparing the atmosphere to a shebeen rather than a place of mourning.
She added that mourners were forced to walk past littered bottles and cans left behind after the event, further deepening the disrespect.
Officials promise strict enforcement
City officials condemned the gathering in a statement on Thursday, calling the actions ‘unacceptable’ and a breach of the dignity of the deceased and grieving families.
‘Cemeteries are sacred spaces reserved only for burials and remembrance of the deceased,’ the statement read. ‘Social gatherings, alcohol consumption and littering within cemetery grounds are strictly prohibited.’
The city reminded residents that leaving waste or litter in cemeteries is a criminal offence and pledged tighter monitoring and enforcement to prevent further incidents.
Previous incidents at Gammams cemetery
This is not the first time the Gammams cemetery has been the focus of controversy. In 2021, a man was arrested after a video surfaced showing him firing gunshots during a funeral at the site. The same event also saw cars spun in the parking area, according to local news outlet The Namibian.
City authorities say they will continue to safeguard the dignity of Windhoek’s burial grounds and ensure that cemeteries remain places of respect and remembrance.
