Kruger National Park has initiated a relief fund to repair infrastructure damaged by recent heavy rains. Forestry, Fisheries and Environment Minister Willie Aucamp announced the initiative following an aerial assessment of the park. He praised the swift response that ensured no injuries or fatalities occurred within the park.
Heavy rainfall has caused significant flooding in South Africa's Mpumalanga province, leading to the temporary closure of Kruger National Park. On January 17, 2026, Minister Willie Aucamp of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment flew over the affected areas to evaluate the damage. He announced the launch of a dedicated relief fund aimed at rebuilding the park's infrastructure, which will be overseen by an independent auditor to ensure transparency.
Aucamp commended the South African National Parks (SANParks) team for their effective planning and rapid action during the crisis. "No one has been injured nor any lives lost," he stated, highlighting the successful evacuation of guests and staff. While the park itself reported no casualties, broader floods in Mpumalanga have resulted in 20 deaths province-wide.
The minister urged corporate entities to contribute to the fund, noting that the Mpumalanga government estimates R2.1 billion will be required to address the flood-related infrastructure damage. This initiative underscores ongoing efforts to restore one of South Africa's premier conservation areas amid severe weather challenges.
