The Chief of Chirapatre in the Asokwa Municipality of the Ashanti Region, Nana Offe Kusi Wiredu II, is overseeing the construction of a fence wall around the public cemetery to improve security and prevent future disputes.

The chief explained that the decision followed an observation that non‑residents had been illegally burying their deceased relatives in the cemetery.

He noted that the practice stirred tension in the community, prompting him to act by building a fence around the cemetery to safeguard the sacred burial grounds and restore peace.

This, he said, would give him and his elders the full authority over the burial ground, ensuring that only families with a rightful claim can access.

“Before I became chief, the community was constantly at odds over outsiders being buried in our cemetery. Seeing that, I knew I had to step in to protect the sacred space and make sure only families with a rightful claim can lay their loved ones to rest there,” he said.

Nana Offe Kusi Wiredu II said that the fence wall will be adorned with artwork intended to give the cemetery a dignified appearance.

“We want the cemetery to reflect the pride of Chirapatre, much like the well‑kept cemeteries you see in other developing nations,” the chief remarked.

He added that the design will also include spaces where multiple burials can be accommodated respectfully.

"We won’t permit a single burial per grave; instead, three bodies will share one grave. If you prefer your mother or father to occupy a sole grave, you’ll need to pay extra for that privilege," he said.

During a recent visit, Adom News witnessed that the ongoing project with blocks scattered around the site and a metal gate already installed at the entrance.

Once the wall is completed, the chief plans to demarcate the cemetery’s land to families in the community.

The initiative has been welcomed by elders and community members, who hope the measure will restore peace and reinforce the authority of traditional leadership over communal assets. The fence wall is expected to be finished within the next few months, after which a dedication ceremony will be held.