South Africa's Kruger Flood Damage Runs Into Over $30 Million as Recovery Fund Launched: Gov't
South Africa's Kruger Flood Damage Runs Into Over $30 Million as Recovery Fund Launched: Gov't
Repairs of the part are expected to take up to five years, South Africa’s Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) confirmed.
A total of 15 tourist camps remain closed, some completely inaccessible, Environment Minister Willie Aucamp said.
Despite the scale of destruction, Aucamp stressed that “the most important highlight is that no lives were lost,” thanking South African National Parks leadership, staff, emergency teams, and partners for their response.
To support restoration efforts, the minister announced the creation of the SANParks Kruger Recovery Fund, which will operate under independent governance with transparent reporting. Authorities are calling on the public to contribute, noting that 100% of donations will go toward relief and recovery.
Meanwhile, SANParks reported that improving weather conditions have allowed limited reopening.
Authorities say wildlife has largely moved to higher ground, but have warned nearby communities to remain cautious, particularly of crocodiles displaced by floodwaters.
The flooding forms part of a broader pattern of more frequent and intense storms in southeastern Africa, linked to climate change, with neighboring Mozambique also facing severe floods.
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