By REGINALD KANYANE
14 February 2026 – The Portfolio Committee on Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment on Friday commended the South African National Parks (SANParks) for the sterling and well-coordinated rescue operations conducted during the recent devastating floods within the Kruger National Park. The committee noted the professionalism displayed during the crisis and further acknowledged SANParks’ efforts to rescue both humans and wildlife using its resources.
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Forestry, Fisheries and Environmental, Nqabisa Gantsho said while the floods caused extensive damage to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, staff villages, utilities, and tourist facilities, the committee appreciated that no lives were lost. Gantsho said preliminary assessments estimated the damage at hundreds of millions of rands.
“For the committee, whoever, the preservation of life remains the ultimate metric of success. The committee noted that the outcome was the result of a combination of functional early warning systems, swift evacuation protocols, and the tireless and heroic efforts of park management and emergency personnel.
“The committee acknowledges that these floods place a significant strain on the park’s operational capacity. These adverse weather events also highlight the need for increased budgetary allocations and investment in infrastructure as part of South Africa’s broader strategy to adapt to escalating climate risks,” she said.
Gantsho said the committee supports the establishment of the SANParks Kruger Recovery Fund. She applauds the proactive fundraising initiatives that are already underway.
“We also note the essential work of the SANParks Honorary Rangers through the Kruger Flood 2026 Fund and the significant contributions pledged by various national and international partners. The committee appealed for transparency and the correct allocation of resources.
“It also emphasised that these Funds are the only legitimate channels authorised to receive and manage donations. We encourage individuals, local communities and the private sector to contribute generously toward this cause,” said Gantsho.
She said the Kruger National Park is far more than a conservation area. Gantsho said it is a national heritage asset, a cornerstone of their biodiversity and the economic lifeline for the communities that border it.
“The recovery of the park is therefore a shared national responsibility. By contributing to these official fundraising efforts, the public plays a vital role in the rebuilding process. Our collective goal is to ensure that Kruger National Park not only recovers its former status but also emerges stronger, safer and better prepared for future climate challenges,” she said.
The Guardian 