LIMPOPO – Traditional leaders have intensified calls for the renaming of several sites within Kruger National Park (KNP) during the recent workshop held at Mopani Rest Camp, arguing that many current names misrepresent the true history of the areas and the communities that once lived there.

Speaking at the event, which was held with an aim to gather ideas ahead of Sanparks’ 100 years celebration on May 30, Hosi Mhinga has voiced frustration over delays in changing the name of Punda Maria Gate, saying the matter has been raised for years without progress.

“For the past five years, we have been requesting name changes in several key areas. For instance, Punda Maria. I don’t even know how that name came about. I checked the archives, and there was no single person who used to live in the area known as Punda Maria. Therefore, that gate must be changed to Mhinga Gate because it is on our land,” he said.

Hosi Mhinga criticises slow consultation process

He criticised the slow pace of the process, saying repeated enquiries had not yielded results. “Every time I enquire about it, I’m told, ‘we’re still consulting,’ but that is taking too long,” he added.

Hosi Mhinga also raised concerns about the historical accuracy of heritage sites such as Thulamela Ruins, arguing that even the name itself is incorrect.

“There’s no place in that area called Thulamela; the word is misspelt. This narrative must stop and be replaced with the correct one,” he said, stressing that proper consultation with communities is key to correcting such errors.

He pointed to the book Neem uit die Verlede as a useful historical reference, noting that it contains maps showing where black communities once lived.

He said this could help verify the origins of sites now designated as heritage areas.

Phalaborwa place names also under scrutiny

Supporting the call, Hosi Selwane said many place names, especially in Phalaborwa, do not reflect the communities that historically lived there.

He said past naming processes relied on limited sources and excluded dispossessed communities, resulting in errors that need correction.

He cited the Masorini heritage site near Letaba camp, arguing that the history presented does not match its name or former inhabitants.

KNP admits some names may be wrong

Responding, KNP spokesperson Ray Thakhuli acknowledged some names may be incorrect but said correcting them takes time due to consultation and verification with traditional leaders and rightful landowners.

He added that the park aims to commemorate, not celebrate, the past, recognising forced removals and the need to mark milestones within their full historical context.