AE01117
A final report on the investigation, exhumation and relocation of graves impacted on by the Sylvania Lannex Tailings Dam on the Farm Annex Grootboom 335 KT, near Steelpoort, Mpumalanga
Summary
During February 2010 Archaetnos cc conducted a Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) for the proposed SAMANCOR Eastern Chrome Mines’ Sylvania Lannex Tailings Dam near Steelpoort in Mpumalanga. Although a number of Stone Age sites were located (and later mitigated) during the survey, not other sites of significance was found. During October 2010 we were informed that a number of graves were discovered in the area, and that they would have to be exhumed and relocated. Archaetnos was appointed to undertake this work, in conjunction with Phokwane Funerals from Mamelodi in Pretoria. Consent for the relocation was provided by the family, and after a permit was issued by SAHRA, the work was undertaken and completed during February 2011. A total of 6 possible graves were investigated, with three eventually reburied on a new grave site on the property of SAMANCOR (Sylvania Section).
The graves are discussed in detail in the report, with a number of recommendations put forward at the end.
Report by
A.J. Pelser, A.C. van Vollenhoven (L.AKAD.SA.)
J.van der Walt