Schoolkids and rangers combat litter in Skukuza

The SANParks Honorary Rangers’ (SHR) Litter Awareness Programme in the Kruger National Park made a definite impact on hundreds of primary and preprimary school learners and thousands of tourists during its open week in September.

Fourteen honorary rangers worked a total of 150 hours and travelled 1 124km doing litter patrols from September 12 to 16. They also organised the joyous participation of numerous schools from the Kruger’s border regions.

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“The SHR showed up in force at Phabeni, Malelane and Orpen gates as part of our ongoing litter awareness campaign. I believe it was very well received,” said spokesperson Jenny Robertson.

Participating schools included Buyelani Preschool, Cunningmoore Primary School, Hokisa Primary School, Shatleng Primary School, Lihlabile Preschool, Siyanda Primary School, Kwanang Primary School and Shambala Secondary School.

Fifteen refuse bags full of cans, plastic bottles, disposable wipes, chips and sweet packets were collected.
But rather than constantly having to pick up litter, the SHR’s aims to change behaviour and create a sense of ownership so that people will stop littering.

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“Litter is a huge threat to the environment. Animals are injured and even die due to littering. And it is such an eyesore to all the park’s visitors,” said Robertson.
“We are extending our educational presentations to communities and schools bordering the Kruger. We’re incentivising adults and children alike to look after our natural environment.”

The SHR aims to spread this awareness campaign further afield to schools and communities right across the Lowveld, as well as to all tourists entering the Kruger. Over 2 500 visitors entered through Phabeni Gate alone in September.