Garden Route National Park Operations Amid Ongoing Severe Weather
The Garden Route region continues to experience heavy rainfall, although wind conditions have subsided compared to yesterday, 11 May 2026. Damage asse...
Nineteen of those killed came from the surrounding communities and had been contracted to cut grass in the park, four were park rangers who died trying to put out the fire. About 60 000 hectares of conservation land was also destroyed.
The Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Mr Mohammed Valli Moosa, asked the Chairman of the South African National Parks Board, Mr Murphy Morobe, to ensure that the cause of the fire was fully investigated.
According to Mr Morobe, Judge Ngobeni”s appointment to lead the investigation is an excellent choice because of his judicial expertise and experience, and his familiarity with the region and its communities.
The investigation will include recommendations, as may be necessary, on steps that would need to be taken to prevent the recurrence of a disaster of this nature.
Dr Salifou Siddo
Head: Communications
SANParks
Tel: 012-426-5018; Cell: 082-802-3316