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Under the programme, private investors will be allowed to take over or build and operate tourism facilities within the National Parks, under long-term concession contracts. This is a radical departure from normal SANP rules, and marks a bold new direction for the organisation.

In his opening remarks, Mavuso Msimang, the SANP Chief Executive, pointed out that the organisation is embarking on a commercialisation programme which will see it move away from direct management of commercial operations in Parks, to regulating the provision of services by the private sector.

“Involving private sector operators in our tourism operations will not only allow us to increase efficiency and delivery of better customer service, it will also allow us to concentrate on what we really do best, and that is conservation” Msimang said.

The commercialisation programme, which takes into account the need to balance the needs of tourism and conservation, will have a strong empowerment component and will be implemented in phases. The first phase involves the outsourcing of 12 lodge sites in Kruger, Addo Elephant and Kalahari Gemsbok National Parks. In addition, the Brandwag hotel and chalets in Golden Gate National Park will also be put out to concession. SANP”s restaurants and retail shops will also be outsourced in the near future.

As part of the implementation process, there will be a series of public consultation workshops at the national and local levels where interested groups and individuals will have the opportunity to obtain additional information and discuss issues with Parks” management.

For more information on the proposed commercialisation programme visit SANP”s website at www.parks-sa.co.za.

Enquiries:
Dr Salifou Siddo
Head: Corporate Affairs
South African National Parks
Tel: (012) 343 9770; Fax: (012) 343 0153
Email: [email protected]