Johannesburg: The government has announced the establishment of the Kruger Relief Fund to assist efforts in rebuilding the Kruger National Park following severe damage caused by heavy rainfall. The popular tourist destination, situated in Limpopo and Mpumalanga, has been impacted by persistent rainfall and subsequent flooding over the past week, resulting in loss of life and infrastructure damage.
According to South African Government News Agency, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Willie Aucamp, expressed his approval of SANParks' commitment to establishing the Kruger Relief Fund. The fund aims to aid in rebuilding efforts, provide emergency supplies, and address any other necessities that have arisen due to the damage. It will be managed and audited by two independent auditing firms to ensure transparency and efficiency.
The Minister emphasized the critical need for financial support to rebuild the park, highlighting the extensive damage and the significant costs associated with repairs. He made an appeal for donations from the public, corporate entities, and nature conservation organizations to contribute to restoring the park to its previous state. Despite the absence of an estimated total cost of the damage, Minister Aucamp stressed the urgency and importance of collective efforts to achieve this goal.
During a visit to the park, the Minister assessed the damage and engaged with various stakeholders, including SANParks leadership. He commended the park's proactive response to the heavy rainfall, which included prohibiting day visits to ensure safety. The Minister praised the park's well-planned and executed emergency response, which successfully evacuated staff and guests without any loss of life.
Minister Aucamp expressed gratitude to the park's management and emergency services for their efficient and coordinated efforts in handling the crisis. Despite facing challenges such as road and gate closures, electricity outages, and interruptions to basic services, the team maintained a safety-first approach, prioritizing human-centric operations.
SANParks has confirmed that day visits to the park remain prohibited until further notice, and restrictions are in place at several gates. Access is currently limited to essential delivery vehicles, airport transfers with valid flight tickets, officials, and guests with confirmed accommodation bookings at Berg n Dal, Skukuza, and Pretoriuskop.