Warning: Kruger Park gate to close due to planned youth march

Access to the Malelane Gate in the southern section of the Kruger National Park will be temporarily suspended on Tuesday, 22 September, due to a planned march by unemployed youth from the Nkomazi area.

SANParks said the organisers have indicated that the march is intended to be a peaceful protest focused on concerns affecting unemployed young people in the area bordering the national park.

Attempts to meet with the organisers ahead of the planned protest were unsuccessful.

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Malelane Gate closure

As a precautionary measure, SANParks said Malelane Gate will close from 08:00 on Tuesday, 22 September.

The gate will remain closed until protesters have vacated the affected area and authorities are satisfied that normal operations can safely resume.

The temporary closure is intended to protect the safety of Kruger National Park visitors, staff and protesters.

SANParks has advised guests, suppliers, staff and other people who would normally use Malelane Gate to make alternative travel arrangements.

Visitors are encouraged to use other Kruger National Park entry gates where possible during the protest period.

Visitors urged to plan ahead

The closure could affect visitors travelling to or from the park through Malelane, with SANParks urging those with planned journeys to take the temporary access restrictions into account.

The organisation said it will provide further updates if there are any changes to the situation or if Malelane Gate is able to reopen earlier than anticipated.

SANParks apologised for the inconvenience caused by the temporary closure and thanked visitors, stakeholders and members of the public for their patience and cooperation.

The organisation said the precautionary measures were being taken with the safety and security of everyone involved as the priority.