News

The Kruger National Park (KNP) Achievement Awards took place on Friday, November 01, 2024, in Skukuza. Over 120 employees received individual awards, displaying great pleasure and pride as they walked the stage to collect their prizes.

Amongst the award recipients, were those outstanding in the workplace, others gave outstanding service to clients, some worked well as a team whilst some developed and honed others’ skills. Some of the winners have worked in the organization over the years and have always given their best, but really went beyond their expected duties in the past year with their drive and energy. There were those who showed bravery and rescued their colleagues in the face of imminent danger, disregarding their own self-preservation. The ceremony also afforded a platform to honour and appreciate external stakeholders who constantly show interest and commitment to assisting the park achieve the organization’s objectives.

Awards were given to KNP staff members who have excelled in the categories of “Outstanding Service in the Workplace” and “Outstanding Service to Tourist/Client/Customer” in the past year. Other awards categories given were: “Lifetime Achievement Award”, “Bravery Award”, “Ranger Post of the Year”, “Camp of the Year”, “Bush Camp of the Year”, “Entrance Gate of the Year”, “Leadership Award”, “Managing Executive Special Awards” and “Appreciation Awards”.

Management also bestowed a Lifetime Contribution Award to Ranger Batista Baloi who received a standing ovation for his 47 years in the organization. Baloi joined the KNP in 1977 and retired on a much-earnt pension with an unblemished personal record at the end of June 2024. He started working as General Worker then became Field Ranger, Corporal, Sergeant and eventually his promotion to Assistant Section Ranger under Special Operations Unit.

All the finalists went through a selection phase based on a set of stringent assessment criteria. Apart from their extra mile achievements, individual nominees had to possess qualities such as independent and progressive thinking, initiative and creativity, a positive approach to work, leadership and ability to interact at all levels regardless of training and skills. The awards for facilities were judged on areas such as overall performance, implementation of various systems, financial performance and management, guest complaints and compliments, compliance to policies and general neatness of the facility.

Camp of the Year went to Mopani. Managing Executive Oscar Mthimkhulu and GM: Commercial Operations, Ms Nokhuthula Maier congratulate Mopani staff members