Minister praises 33 newly appointed field rangers at Kruger National Park
Dion George, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, has extended his congratulations to the 33 newly graduated field rangers at Kruger Park.
Dr. Dion George, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, has congratulated the 33 newly graduated field rangers of Kruger National Park (KNP).
The graduates completed a rigorous training regimen and were inaugurated as field rangers at a ceremony in Skukuza in the Kruger National Park earlier this month, as reported by The South African website.
The minister commended the dedication and resilience of the new recruits.
Demanded both physical endurance and mental fortitude
“I am proud of the commitment and determination each of these individuals has shown throughout their intense six-week training programme. These new field rangers will provide critical support to our conservation efforts, safeguarding one of South Africa’s most treasured natural heritages and playing a vital role in preserving our biodiversity for future generations,” George said on Tuesday.
The rigorous pre-selection and selection process, which took place in July 2024, demanded both physical endurance and mental fortitude from the trainees.
Field rangers at the frontline of the fight against poaching
The graduates will now join the ranger corps across various sections of the KNP, contributing to law enforcement and biodiversity conservation efforts in the park.
“Our field rangers are at the frontline of the fight against poaching and environmental crime. Their work ensures the integrity of our protected areas, and I trust that their contributions will strengthen our collective efforts to protect South Africa’s wildlife,” George said.
The Minister also extended his gratitude to South African National Parks (SANParks) for their continued leadership in conservation and their commitment to maintaining the highest standards in ranger training.