South Africa's world-famous Kruger National Park could become known by a new name if some local politicians have their way.
The vast wildlife sanctuary, called the Sabi Game Reserve at the time, was re-christened in 1926 to honour Paul Kruger. He was president in the late 19th Century of what was known as the South African Republic, which forms part of what is now the east of South Africa.
For Afrikaners, descendants of 17th Century European settlers, Kruger is revered as a hero who led the resistance against British colonialism.
However, the majority of South Africans view him as a relic of the country's racist past, as he was one of those responsible for driving black Africans off their land and excluding them from governance.
Since the end of apartheid in 1994, many cities, towns, and infrastructure have been renamed to reflect a new era. The proposed name change for Kruger National Park, however, transcends history and delves into economic concerns.
Almost a million visitors each year flock to see the park's wildlife, a key contributor to South Africa's tourism industry. The recent proposal to rename it to Skukuza—named after the park's first warden—has been criticized as potentially damaging. EFF representative Rhulani Qhibi questioned how they could celebrate their heritage while honoring the architect of apartheid.
Opponents argue that renaming Kruger National Park could impact the tourism sector significantly, which contributes nearly 9% to the national economy. Tourism expert Prof Elmarie Slabbert warns of severe consequences if international recognition of the park is diminished.
Legal barriers exist to changing the name; it requires a thorough process involving public consultation and national review. Many South Africans are engaged in this dialogue, reflecting the complexities of addressing the nation’s past while striving for a more inclusive future.
