South Africa is one of the most developed countries in Africa, but it also has some of the worst poverty and inequality. This contradiction is reflected in its funeral services. South Africans with money can have a lavish, stylish funeral that their peers would envy in other countries. Meanwhile, many who are less well off must rely on government handouts to cover costs they cannot afford. The result is an industry that attracts both charlatans and qualified professionals who work hard to bring dignity to those who have passed away and ensure their families peace of mind as they mourn their loved ones.
Why funerals are expensive in South Africa?
South Africa’s population is exploding, with the number of people growing faster than the economy.
It also means that there are more funerals taking place every day—and a funeral doesn’t come cheap.
The government has launched initiatives such as a national funeral policy that aims to help lower costs by making it easier for people to access low-cost funerals, but these schemes rarely work out well for everybody involved (except maybe for funeral parlours).
South Africa has fewer burial spaces than it needs.
South Africa has fewer burial spaces than it needs.
The country has a shortage of cemeteries, graveyards and crematoriums, as well as other funeral facilities like funeral parlours.
How many South Africans finance their funerals?
Many South Africans have not saved for a funeral and rely on state handouts to cover costs. A government report from 2013 says that the average cost of a funeral in South Africa is R24 500 ($1 530). The cost varies depending on what kind of burial you want, but even the most basic service—burial only—costs about R12 000 ($750).
The government provides a state funeral grant to help cover costs, but sometimes this money is not enough. If your loved one earns less than the taxable threshold (currently R20 610 per year), then some or all of their funeral costs may be covered by National Social Security Agency (NSSF) grants. You can also apply for loans with banks or microfinance institutions, which will give you credit with an interest rate between 15% and 20%.
The government is under pressure to improve the conditions of public cemeteries.
The government is under pressure to improve the conditions of public cemeteries. The government has promised to build new cemeteries and upgrade existing ones, while also providing free burial plots for the poor.
How much do funerals cost in South Africa?
In modern South Africa, a dignified burial can cost anything from R 40,000 to R 120,000.
The costs of funerals vary widely and depend on your wishes and the location of your funeral. Different cities in South Africa have different prices for funeral services. The price of a funeral may also depend on whether you are having a traditional or church service, as well as what kind of casket and embalming is required by these services.
Conclusion
The rising costs of funerals are a major concern for South Africans. The government is under pressure to improve the conditions of public cemeteries and to increase access to affordable burial plots for everyone.
