LIMPOPO – Traditional leaders have called for inclusive and equitable benefits in Kruger National Park (KNP) as it prepares to mark its 100th anniversary on May 30.

The call was made during the Centenary Commemoration Workshop held at Mopani Rest Camp on Thursday, April 23, where several leaders emphasised that communities living adjacent to the park must share meaningfully in its economic and cultural value.

Centenary should not forget historical displacement

Hosi Makuleke said the milestone should not overlook the historical realities of the people who once lived on the land before the park was established.

“The celebration of a 100 years should not forget where the custodians of the land come from, because we are who we are today due to the sacrifices of the people who were here before us, many of whom lost land through displacement,” he said.

“We must not forget the old ways of how we used to do things, our culture and heritage, and this is what the park should focus on as it celebrates a hundred years of existence,” he added.

Communities must participate in celebrations

His sentiments were echoed by Vutshila Muyexe of the Muyexe Royal Family in Giyani, who called for a broader participation of local communities in activities linked to the centenary celebrations.

“Our people should be engaged as well, not just the leaders. When you talk about a hundred-year celebration, they should know how to participate in it, either through cultural heritage or any other means that ensure they benefit from the event,” she said.

Unresolved issues cloud centenary

However, not all speakers focused on the celebrations. Hosi Mhinga warned that unresolved, long-standing issues could undermine the milestone, saying it would be “very difficult” to celebrate while they remained unaddressed.

He cited commitments made during the tenure of former Environmental Affairs Minister Valli Moosa, particularly the removal of the fence between KNP and conservation areas in Mozambique.

According to Mhinga, the open boundary has enabled cattle theft, with livestock driven through the park into Mozambique.

Calls to reinstall the fence, he said, have gone unanswered, while communities continue to suffer losses.

“You cannot celebrate something that is being degraded every day,” he added, urging that the issue be resolved before celebrations proceed.

Sanparks commits to stronger cooperation

Responding, Sanparks’ communications head said collaboration with communities, traditional leaders, and municipalities remains central to the park’s Vision 2040.

He said the centenary should be used to reflect on shortcomings and strengthen cooperation, adding that the celebrations would include year-long projects aimed at leaving a lasting benefit for both the park and neighbouring communities.