The Eastern Cape provincial government has confirmed a mass funeral for the 21 young people who died at Enyobeni tavern in East London.

With the autopsies on the 21 young people who died at the Enyobeni tavern event in East London completed, arrangements are under way for a mass funeral next Wednesday.

The Eastern Cape government said AVBOB pledged to cover the burial costs, and the Buffalo City Municipality will waive grave fees.

Other sectors of society have also been offering assistance to the bereaved.

“Government has expressed appreciation for support that has been received from all sectors of society in preparation for the funeral,” a statement said.

The grieving families will be able to choose where their children are buried.

Twenty-one children between the ages of 13 and 17 were declared dead early on Sunday morning.

The cause of death has not been revealed officially, and a report on the autopsies conducted in the Western Cape will be shared with the affected families as soon as the investigation is finished.

Rantjie says samples have been sent to a lab in the Western Cape. .

“The report will be shared with the affected families as soon as investigations have been concluded. The South African Police Service remains on the scene and continues to comb the scene for further clues in relation to the tragic incident.

“Thereafter, families will be assisted with transportation of the remains to be interred at burial sites of their choice.”

Rantjie says funeral parlours have also pledged to assist the families.

“Amongst those is AVBOB, the funeral parlour has pledged burial costs support for each family. The Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality has waved the grave fees for the burial of the deceased and together with the provincial government will facilitate other logistical needs to ensure a dignified send-off for the deceased.

“This morning, food parcels and vouchers have been delivered to assist with immediate needs of the families.”