Department of Water and Sanitation to host a Traditional Cleansing Ceremony and unveil a monument as compensation to the community of Jozini affected by the construction of the Pongolapoort Dam
The Department of Water and Sanitation will host a traditional cleansing ceremony and unveil a monument as compensation to the community of Jozini that was affected by the construction of the Pongolapoort Dam from 28 to 30 April 2016.
The Pongolapoort Dam was constructed in 1973 on the uPhongolo River that flows between the Lebombo mountains. The people that lived along the river banks were moved persuasively with their departed loved ones left behind. As years passed, the Pongolapoort Dam increased in size and covered the graves. The community is therefore distressed about the graves that were not properly exhumed.
The department will be hosting a two day cleansing ceremony and unveil a monument to provide closure to the community of Jozini.
The media is invited as follows on the following proceedings:
Ritual Performance:
Date: 28 April 2016
Time: 14h00
Venue: Pongolapoort Dam - Affected families and faith healers to perform the rituals on the banks
Unveiling of the Monument:
Date: 29 April 2016
Time: 08h00
Venue: South entrance of Pongolapoort Dam
Imbizo Public Participation Programme:
Date: 30 April 2016
Time: 10h00
Venue: Ezibukweni Sports Field
For media confirmations please contact:
Mbali Mahaye
Tel: 031 336 2929
Cell: 082 601 5674
E-mail: MahayeM@dws.gov.za
NB: Transport for the media will be provided.
Pick-up point:
Durban Play House (Anton Lembede Street /Smith Street)
Time: 8h00
Date: 28-29 April 2016
For more information contact:
Sputnik Ratau
Cell: 082 874 2942
