Is Kruger National Park Set for a Name Change? A Look at the Controversy
Khanyisile Ngcobo, Johannesburg, Corbis via Getty Images
Nestled in the heart of South Africa, the iconic Kruger National Park may soon be known by a different name, sparking a heated debate among local politicians and citizens alike. Originally named the Sabi Game Reserve, the park was renamed in 1926 to honor Paul Kruger, a prominent figure who served as president of the South African Republic in the late 19th century.
For many Afrikaners, Kruger is celebrated as a national hero who fought against British colonialism. However, for a significant portion of the South African population, he symbolizes the country’s oppressive past, having played a role in the displacement of black Africans and their exclusion from governance.
Since the end of apartheid in 1994, numerous cities, towns, and landmarks in South Africa have undergone name changes as part of a broader movement to address historical injustices. While these changes are often contentious, they are seen as necessary to break from the legacy of colonialism and apartheid.
Recently, during Heritage Month in September, representatives from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), an opposition party, proposed renaming Kruger National Park. EFF representative Rhulani Qhibi argued, "How do we celebrate our heritage as South Africans when we still have our beautiful national parks named after the architect of apartheid Paul Kruger?" While historically inaccurate—since apartheid was legally instituted long after Kruger’s death—the sentiment reflects a growing desire to redefine the nation’s narrative.
The EFF also suggested renaming other significant landmarks, including the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport. However, their proposed alternative name, Skukuza, has raised eyebrows. Skukuza, meaning "he who sweeps clean" in Tsonga, was the nickname of the park’s first warden, who was known for driving out both poachers and local black communities.
Collen Sedibe, the EFF leader in Mpumalanga, acknowledged the backlash, stating, "We are still engaging with the land claimants at Kruger National Park… they said Skukuza is not the right name." This admission highlights the complexities involved in addressing historical grievances.
Opposition to the name change has come from various quarters, including the Afrikaner lobby group AfriForum. They criticized the EFF’s proposal as "cheap politics" and vowed to challenge any attempts to rename the park without a thorough process. AfriForum’s Marais de Vaal emphasized that Kruger played a pivotal role in establishing the national park, arguing that disregarding this legacy is both opportunistic and misleading.
Although the proposal to change the park’s name has garnered support from major political parties, including the African National Congress (ANC), it lacks legal authority. Any name change would require a national process overseen by the South African Geographical Names Council (SAGNC). Tourism experts warn that altering the park’s name could have severe repercussions for South Africa’s tourism industry, which contributes nearly 9% to the economy. Prof. Elmarie Slabbert cautioned that such a change could dilute the park’s international recognition, built over many years.
In light of South Africa’s high unemployment rate—over 30%—many believe that financial resources should prioritize addressing economic challenges rather than focusing on renaming landmarks. However, others argue that acknowledging indigenous heritage and addressing historical injustices is equally important.
The debate surrounding Kruger National Park is emblematic of a larger reckoning with South Africa’s past. Other notable name changes have occurred across the country, such as the transformation of Port Elizabeth into Gqeberha, and the renaming of Johannesburg’s airport from Jan Smuts to OR Tambo, honoring anti-apartheid leaders.
As discussions continue, the path to any potential name change will involve a rigorous legal process, ensuring that all voices are heard. The outcome will not only reflect the country’s willingness to confront its history but also shape the future of South Africa’s cultural landscape.
For more insights into South Africa’s evolving identity and heritage, stay tuned for updates on this and other significant developments.
