The Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature approved a motion to rename Kruger Mpumalanga International (KMI) Airport after the late Deputy President, David “DD” Mabuza. The motion also proposes renaming the Kruger National Park to Skukuza National Park.
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Member of the Provincial Legislature, Rhulani Quibi, tabled the proposal during a Heritage Month sitting on Tuesday, September 23. He said names linked to apartheid and colonial figures, like Paul Kruger, no longer reflect South Africa’s landmarks.
“Continuing to celebrate names like Kruger is a celebration of oppression. Our heritage should reflect leaders who fought for democracy,” Quibi said.
TRIBUTE TO MABUZA
In a statement, EFF Provincial Chairperson, Collen Sedibe, celebrated the decision, calling it “historic and progressive.”
According to Sedibe, the renaming honours DD Mabuza’s lifelong dedication to activism, provincial development, and uplifting local communities. “Naming the airport after DD Mabuza ensures future generations remember his sacrifices and contributions,” he added.
Sedibe went on to praise the proposal to rename Kruger National Park to Skukuza National Park, saying it reflects Mpumalanga’s identity as a province of courage, leadership, and vision.
The EFF called on all sectors of society to embrace these changes with pride, describing them as a move to preserve history while celebrating homegrown heroes.
What’s in a name?
- KMI Airport, opened in 2002, serves as Mpumalanga’s key aviation hub and gateway to the Lowveld.
- Kruger National Park, established in 1926, is one of Africa’s best-known conservation areas but still carries the legacy of Paul Kruger, a figure tied to segregationist history.
What happens next?
While the legislature adopted the motion, the proposed renaming is not yet final. Both changes must still go through administrative and legal processes before they can take effect according to The Citizen.
David Mabuza, served as Deputy President of South Africa from February 2018 to February 2023 and Premier of Mpumalanga from 2009 to 2018. He passed away on July 3, 2025, at 64.
