Debate Ignites Over Renaming South Africa's Iconic Kruger National Park

Thu Oct 16 2025 22:20:58 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The push to rename Kruger National Park, a global wildlife sanctuary, sparks intense discussions reflecting South Africa's complex history.

Local politicians in South Africa are debating the renaming of Kruger National Park, a beloved wildlife sanctuary named after Paul Kruger, whose legacy is controversial. For some, he is a historical hero, while others view him as a symbol of apartheid-era injustices. The proposed changes raise concerns about potential economic impacts on South Africa's vital tourism industry, which heavily relies on the park's international appeal.

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.

But for the majority of South Africans, he is viewed 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 having a say in running the republic.

Many South African cities, towns, roads and other major infrastructure have been given new names since the end of the legalised system of racial discrimination, known as apartheid, and the beginning of the democratic era in 1994. Such changes, although controversial, have been viewed as a necessary step to break with the legacy of apartheid and colonialism.

The proposed name change of Kruger Park not only stirs historical sentiment but also raises concerns regarding the impact on the country's fragile economy. The national park, home to diverse wildlife and a major tourist attraction, draws nearly a million visitors annually.

During South Africa's Heritage Month in September, representatives from the opposition Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) proposed renaming the park, questioning how the celebration of national heritage can coexist with a park named after Paul Kruger.

In their haste for change, the EFF's proposed name, Skukuza, has also raised eyebrows due to its association with a controversial historical figure. Calls for further engagement and due consideration of indigenous claims and community sentiments are echoing across the political landscape.

Opponents of the proposal, including the Afrikaner lobby group AfriForum, label the move as opportunistic politics, arguing it disregards Kruger's contribution to establishing the national park. The idea faces legal challenges and scrutiny amid fears that changing the name could significantly impact the tourism industry, vital for South Africa's economy.

As discussions progress, the nuanced legacy of Kruger Park embodies broader themes of identity, history, and the economic realities of a nation still grappling with its past.