Calls to rename Kruger National Park spark fresh colonial-era debate in South Africa
Introduced by the Economic Freedom Fighters during Heritage Month, the proposal argues it’s wrong for a national symbol to honour a figure tied to racial exclusion.
South Africa’s world-famous Kruger National Park could soon get a new name after opposition leaders tabled a motion calling for the removal of Paul Kruger’s name — a move that has reignited debate over how the country should confront its colonial legacy.
The proposal, introduced by members of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) during Heritage Month in September, argues that it is inappropriate for one of South Africa’s most important national symbols to honour a figure linked to racial exclusion.
More To Read
- Preliminary findings show no foul play in death of South Africa’s Ambassador Mthethwa
- Ramaphosa slams Israel, calls for release of Mandela’s grandson seized in Gaza flotilla
- South Africa’s Julius Malema convicted for firing gun at 2018 rally
- South Africa’s World Cup hopes take major hit after FIFA strips win against Lesotho
- Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa begin FIFA U-20 World Cup campaigns in Chile
- Haiti, South Africa ranked among top five nations with highest crime rate globally
Originally known as the Sabi Game Reserve, the park was renamed in 1926 after Paul Kruger, who served as president of the former South African Republic in the late 19th century.
While many white South Africans view Kruger as a nationalist hero who resisted British imperialism, others regard him as a symbol of dispossession and oppression against Black communities.
In recent years, South Africa has renamed several towns, cities, and public landmarks to reflect its democratic identity and indigenous heritage — efforts aimed at severing ties with the colonial past. Port Elizabeth, for instance, became Gqeberha, King William’s Town was changed to Qonce, and Jan Smuts Airport was renamed OR Tambo International Airport.
Greater implications
However, experts note that renaming Kruger National Park carries far greater implications.
The 19,500-square-kilometre reserve attracts nearly a million visitors annually and is a major contributor to South Africa’s tourism industry, which accounts for almost 9 per cent of the country’s GDP. Critics warn that a name change could confuse international tourists and dilute a globally recognised brand.
According to the BBC, the EFF had initially suggested renaming the park “Skukuza,” a Tsonga term meaning “he who sweeps clean.” However, the proposal was withdrawn after locals objected, noting that the park’s first warden, James Stevenson-Hamilton — who carried that nickname — had forcibly removed communities from the area.
“We are still engaging with the land claimants at Kruger National Park and the people who were staying there because they said Skukuza is not the right name. He was the man who kicked them out of the park,” EFF’s Mpumalanga leader Collen Sedibe told Sunday World.
The motion, which also received support from the ruling African National Congress (ANC) and the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, remains symbolic for now. National naming decisions fall under the South African Geographical Names Council (SAGNC), which must conduct public consultations before any final approval by the Minister of Arts and Culture.
Top Stories Today
