The Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature has ignited fierce debate by proposing a name change for one of South Africa’s most iconic landmarks, the Kruger National Park.
The motion, introduced by EFF Member of the Provincial Legislature (MPL) Rhulani Qhibi, calls for the park to be renamed Skukuza National Park, arguing that the current name honours Paul Kruger, a figure whose legacy is closely associated with colonial rule and apartheid-era policies.
“How can we talk about transformation and inclusivity while a major national park still bears the name of Paul Kruger?” Qhibi asked during the sitting.
A Landmark Under Scrutiny
The Kruger National Park, established in 1926, is one of the largest game reserves in Africa and a cornerstone of South Africa’s tourism industry, attracting millions of local and international visitors each year.
While the name change is positioned as a move toward historical redress and cultural inclusivity, it has drawn sharp criticism from tourism experts, historians, and community leaders, many of whom warn of unintended consequences.
Legal and Policy Barriers
Despite the motion’s symbolism, national legal frameworks present significant obstacles.
Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen clarified that provincial governments do not have the authority to rename national landmarks.
“Name changes must follow the legal procedures set out in the South African Geographical Names Council Act, which includes public participation and ministerial approval,” he said.
The Geographical Names Council, under the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, oversees such changes, ensuring they are aligned with national interests and subject to widespread consultation.
Economic Risks and Global Identity
Critics of the proposed name change warn that altering the park’s internationally recognised brand could harm tourism and the economy.
Michael Catterson, tourism analyst and radio host, stressed that Kruger National Park is more than a name – it is a global symbol.
“Changing it could lead to confusion among international tourists, hurt South Africa’s tourism image, and affect bookings. It’s a risky move, especially in a fragile economic climate,” he said.
A Nation Divided
The proposal has polarised public opinion.
On social media, the hashtag #KrugerParkNameChange has sparked heated discussions, with some South Africans supporting the renaming as part of a broader decolonisation effort, while others defend the existing name as a matter of national heritage and economic stability.
Organisations like AfriForum and TLU SA have also spoken out, warning that the renaming would prioritise political symbolism over practical governance and nation-building.
The Way Forward
While the motion has reopened important conversations about who and what is honoured in public spaces, any official name change would require a lengthy process, including community engagement, cabinet approval, and possibly even parliamentary review.
As the debate continues, the Kruger National Park remains a flashpoint in the broader national dialogue about heritage, identity, and the balancing act between historical transformation and economic sustainability.
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