AE1073
A report on the assessment of a possible grave site on the farm Smitspan 306 LQ, close to Lephalale in the Limpopo Province
Summary
Archaetnos cc was requested by Cabanga Concepts on behalf of Sekoko Resources to investigate a possible grave site identified on an area where mining is planned for the near future. If these proved to be graves, Archaetnos was to indicate the best way to deal therewith. The site was identified by one of the geologists of the mine. A Heritage Scoping Assessment was done in the area by Dr J van Schalkwyk. Although he did not identify any graves, he did indicate that the possibility of finding informal cemeteries is a real possibility and that the mine should be vigilant during their work on site.
The mining area is located on the farms Smitspan 306 JQ, Massenberg 305 JQ, Minnasvlakte 258 LQ and Hooikraal 315 LQ. The possible grave site identified is located on the farm Smitspan 306 LQ. This is close to Lephalale in the Limpopo Province.
The site was visited in order to obtain contextual information. This was coupled with information known about the graves, applicable legislation and the grave relocation process.
The finding of the investigation is that the site indeed is a grave yard. Since it is located almost in the center of the proposed mining activities, it would have to be exhumed and relocated as it would not be possible to change the mine plan.
Report by
Dr. A.C. van Vollenhoven (L.AKAD.SA.)
A.J. Pelser