The Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment in South Africa has confirmed that there are no plans to rename the world-renowned reserve Kruger National Park in Mpumalanga.
This clarification follows a recent proposal by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in Mpumalanga to rename the popular tourist destination Skukuza National Park.
According to the EFF, the proposal forms part of a broader initiative to remove colonial-era names and symbols across Mpumalanga and the rest of South Africa.
In September, the EFF also tabled a motion to rename the province’s main airport in honour of former Deputy President David Mabuza – a proposal that received support from parties including the ANC and the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party in the provincial legislature.
The EFF said the proposed renaming would serve not only as a tribute to “a son of the soil” but also as recognition of the significant role Mabuza has played in reshaping the political, social, and economic landscape of both Mpumalanga and South Africa.
“Throughout his years of activism, he dedicated his life to the struggle for liberation, provincial development and the upliftment of people across the province.
“By carrying his name, the Mpumalanga International Airport will serve as a constant reminder to future generations of the sacrifices and contributions of DD Mabuza,” EFF chairperson in Mpumalanga Collen Sedibe said.
This week, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has confirmed that renaming Kruger National Park would require a formal process under Section 20 of the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act (Act 57 of 2003).
So far, no official notice has been published in the Government Gazette, and the minister has not approved any name change.
“There’s no ongoing process to rename Kruger National Park, and I have no intention of approving such a request,” said Minister Dion George.
According to the Act, only the minister has the authority to assign or change the names of national parks. Kruger National Park is officially listed in Schedule 2 of the Act under Item 11.
The department added that any name change would require public consultation and an official notice in the Government Gazette — steps that have not yet begun.
Meanwhile, Professor Elmarie Slabbert, director of the research unit Tourism Research in Economics, Environs and Society (TREES) at the North West University (NWU), has warned that renaming the Kruger National Park will have severe consequences for South Africa’s tourism sector, as the park is synonymous with the country’s tourism offering and, as a brand, its name holds immense value both locally and abroad.
Slabbert said Kruger is arguably one of the most famous wildlife brands in the world. It is mentioned alongside names such as the Serengeti and Yellowstone, which highlights its immense brand value and global recognition among international visitors and tourists.
Renaming the reserve would, without doubt, dilute that value in the short to medium term, as it would take considerable time for a new name to gain the same level of international recognition, she added.
“The change would also bring significant financial implications. A comprehensive rebranding campaign would be required, including international marketing, digital platforms, advertising, and updates for tour operators. This ripple effect would not only impact the park itself but also everyone who promotes it, both locally and globally. The cost would be substantial, and it could take years for a new identity to become established worldwide.
“Of course, Skukuza National Park might resonate more strongly with local communities, and I acknowledge that this is an important consideration. However, we are also likely to see resistance from South Africans and international supporters who view Kruger as a globally recognised symbol of South African tourism.”
