To KNP via Shangoni Gate ‘will happen’
The plans for the Shangoni Gate is at a "no-turning-back stage," according to the park's Communication Manager, William Mabasa.
LIMPOPO – When completed, the gate will boost Giyani Municipality’s local economy through the anticipated influx of tourists that will enter the Kruger National Park (KNP) via this municipality.
Responding to the questions with regard to the progress on the implementation of the gate during the park’s consultative public meeting held in Giyani on Friday, Mabasa said the Shangoni Gate plans were at an advanced stage and “will prevail this time,” after years of failure and trying.
“Those who know the project from way back will tell you that it started in 1976 but failed, and then again in 1993, 1994 and 1995, with no success, however, currently things look promising,” he said.
“I say this because a lot has been done already, the province has started tarring the roads that lead up to the gate such the one that comes via Malamulele,” he explained.
He added that he believed that in the next financial year the province might begin tarring the roads that come via Mninginisi in Giyani.
Inside the park itself the feasibility study has already been done, according to him, and a consultant has already made a final submission to the Department of Environmental Affairs for approval.
“Some of you were part of those that our consultant spoke to at the Mopani Rest Camp last month, before making a final submission to the Department of Environmental Affairs.”
He explained that they would be invited again when the department released its final report for go-ahead approval.
“We are at the stage where we are only waiting for the department to guide us on the way forward, once that is done the construction work will commence,” Mabasa said as a supportive crowd clapped hands and cheered.
