Kruger National Park to keep its iconic name - no change confirmed by government!

The South African Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has confirmed that there has been no official amendment or approval to change the name of the Kruger National Park. According to the Department, no notice has been published in the Government Gazette under Section 20 of the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act 57 of 2003, and the park therefore remains legally and officially the Kruger National Park.

“There is nothing in progress to change the name of the Kruger National Park, and I certainly have no intention of approving any request,” said Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries Dr Dion George.

Under the Protected Areas Act, only the Minister has the legal authority to assign or amend the name of a national park. Schedule 2 of the Act lists all official national parks, with Kruger National Park appearing under Item 11. Any future proposal to alter this name would have to follow a formal legislative process, which includes public consultation and official publication in the Government Gazette - a process that has not been initiated.

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has also urged the public, media outlets, and social platforms to avoid spreading unverified claims about a potential name change. False information not only undermines public confidence but also distracts from the vital work of protecting South Africa’s wildlife and ecosystems. Citizens are encouraged to rely solely on official government communications for accurate updates.

About Kruger National Park
Established in 1926, Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s oldest and most iconic wildlife sanctuaries, stretching across nearly 20,000 km² of pristine bushveld in Limpopo and Mpumalanga. Home to the Big Five, over 500 bird species, and an extraordinary range of biodiversity, the park attracts millions of visitors each year. Beyond its natural heritage, Kruger National Park is a cornerstone of South Africa’s tourism economy and a global symbol of wildlife conservation.

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