The Minister of Forestry and Fisheries has expressed strong confidence that the recovery fund established by South African National Parks will play a vital role in rebuilding Kruger National Park following the recent devastating floods.

Speaking at a media briefing in the park on Friday, 27 February, the Minister reflected on key milestones achieved by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) since his appointment on 17 November 2025, while also outlining the department’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and conservation.

“There’s a lot of people in this country that love the Kruger National Park and will be willing to help,” he said, emphasising the national and emotional significance of the iconic conservation area.

He confirmed that the recovery fund is being managed by three independent auditing firms to ensure full transparency and accountability. According to the Minister, every cent donated will be strictly allocated to the recovery and rebuilding of the park, with no funds diverted to any other purpose.

Just two months into his term of office, the Minister was confronted with the crisis caused by the floods. He praised the response of park management and emergency teams, highlighting the successful evacuation efforts.

“We evacuated hundreds of people and not one single person lost their lives or even got injured. I think that testifies to the passion and the hard work that people in this park are putting in towards their love for this park,” he said.

He described the floods as a major personal and professional challenge, but one that demonstrated the power of collective effort. “It tested me – obviously it was a huge challenge – but look at where we are now, showing that we can work together,” he added.

Progress in recovery is already visible. Several camps affected by the floods have reopened, while others are still undergoing repairs. Letaba Camp, one of the hardest hit, is expected to reopen partially by the end of May this year, with full operations anticipated by November.

The Minister reaffirmed his commitment to SANParks and the Kruger National Park, stating that his support would continue throughout the recovery process.

The total confirmed damage currently stands at R490 million. However, some areas of the park remain inaccessible, and authorities estimate that the final cost could rise to between R500 million and R600 million.

Through the Kruger Recovery Fund and the Honorary Rangers Fund, just over R3 million has already been raised — a figure the Minister described as “a drop in the ocean” compared to the scale of the destruction.

Further support has been confirmed from the Minister of Tourism, who has committed R56 million to fund Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) workers. These workers will assist with large-scale cleaning and restoration operations within the park.

As recovery efforts continue, government, conservation bodies and the public are being urged to work together to restore one of South Africa’s most treasured natural landmarks, ensuring that Kruger National Park remains protected for future generations.