Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
06 September 2024 | 22:47 SAST
2-minute read

Elephant in the Kruger National Park
Picture: File image/Sameera Casmod

Six elephants made their way out of the Kruger National Park on Wednesday afternoon but were safely returned home on Thursday morning after extensive rescue efforts by SANParks and the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA).

The animals most likely escaped by crossing one of the rivers that run through the reserve, the Park’s spokesperson Isaac Phaahla told Radio Islam International.

“The fences are very porous. We have rivers that run through those fences. We have winter, which means there’s less rain…and the levels are very low, so it’s very easy for the elephants to go through,” Mr Phaahla said.

The biggest hindrance faced by authorities were opportunists looking to monopolise the situation for economic gain.

“The motivation is simple: criminal people have seen a market of game meat,” Mr Phaahla explained.

Additionally, efforts to control the situation were hampered by people who blocked the elephants’ paths with vehicles, which is extremely dangerous, causes unnecessary chaos and can lead to injury or death.

SANParks, in collaboration with the MTPA, have several measures in place to minimise the risks associated with wildlife-human contact. However, with communities in such close proximity to the park, other such incidents are likely to occur.

“The thing we need to concentrate on is to manage it such that it’s a win-win for all,” Mr Phaahla said.

Mr Phaahla emphasised the important economic role that the KNP plays in the region, saying, “It is a catalyst for employment opportunities, business opportunities- because we buy goods and services. And in the past four years, we have transacted with businesspeople in the community. We support school nutrition. We support quite a lot of the community ventures.”

SANParks urges community members to reciprocate by working with authorities to ensure the eradication of criminal opportunists, as well as to ensure that harmony prevails between humans and animals in the area.

Mr Phaahla said that while efforts were underway to collaborate with surrounding communities to find amicable solutions, education around the issue remains the most important tool.

“Knowing what to do and how to behave around a wild animal [is extremely important]. The first thing you do is call the professionals- MTPA or ourselves [KNP]. And we will be able to handle it from there. Then give us space and we will be able to get the animal safely back into the park,” Mr Phaahla said.

The elephants are safely back within the confines of the park, having made their way back home by themselves- behaviour that is quite natural for animals.

“They don’t intend to harm anyone…They might smell some of the food outside. The vegetables and fruits that communities are planting. And that’s all they’re looking for – food – and then they will come back into the park,” Mr Phaahla explained.

Listen to the full interview on Your World Today with Annisa Essack.