Kruger National Park renaming sparks debate over history and identity

CapeTalk's John Maytham chats to urban researcher at the Gauteng City-Region Observatory, Thembani Mkhize.

Listen below:

Is a name change on the cards for the Kruger National Park?

It's being reported that the Mpumalanga Legislature’s proposal to rename the popular tourist attraction to Skukuza National Park has sparked debate. 

Tourism experts and industry stakeholders warn that renaming the internationally renowned Kruger National Park could damage South Africa’s tourism sector and diminish global recognition of the park. 

The motion, brought forward by EFF MPL Rhulani Qhibi, argued that it is inappropriate for national landmarks to bear the name of Paul Kruger, whom he referred to as “the father of apartheid.” 

Mkhize says the call to rename the park is understandable, given Kruger’s controversial legacy.

"The renaming of the national park is justified on the basis that some of the figures that we still commemorate with these place names are quite objectionable... they're quite problematic, and I think Paul Kruger is one case in point in my opinion. I understand how important he is for Afrikaaner heritage and how he helped develop the Transvaal."

- Thembani Mkhize, Urban Researcher - Gauteng City-Region Observatory

"I understand where the pushback is coming from because I think it's a very emotive issue, especially in a multicultural country such as South Africa, because it's still a very divided country in terms of culture." 

- Thembani Mkhize, Urban Researcher - Gauteng City-Region Observatory

"Someone who's important for a certain cultural heritage might also be problematic for other cultures in this cosmopolitan country. Why I'm divided on the issue would relate to how it's been done countrywide... sometimes it's done quite arbitrarily without proper consultation."

- Thembani Mkhize, Urban Researcher - Gauteng City-Region Observatory

Experts note the motion has no legal standing, as name changes follow a formal national process involving public consultation.

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