LIMPOPO – According to Kruger National Park Spokesperson William Mabasa, Department of Roads and Transport needs to approve the establishment of a new road into the park from Muyexe’s side.
“Rally still needs to approve of its establishment as well as a budget for its construction before we can do anything from our side. Until that is sorted out, there’s no telling as to when we’re going to start the construction of the gate,” he said.
This comes after almost five months since the construction of the gate into Kruger National Park via Muyexe village was approved late last year by the Department of Environmental Affairs after many years of negotiations between the park and several stakeholders.
According to a 24-page approval document from the Department of Environmental Affairs, the department’s choice of the area where the gate is to be constructed stems from a “careful consideration of the findings of all specialist studies conducted and their recommended mitigation measures”.
Speaking on behalf of the Muyexe community, the chairperson of Muyexe Development Committee, Mafemani Maluleke welcomed the approval of the gate saying it would bring development to the village.
“Construction of the gate coupled with other developments will bring more jobs to our community.
“When complete, the project will comprise a Shangoni visitors’ entrance gate, reception facility, picnic site, tented camps, and camping sites.