The Kruger National Park (KNP) rolled out the red carpet on November 7 to celebrate the backbone of its success its exceptional staff at the annual KNP Achievement Awards.
Held at the Nombolo Mdluli Conference Centre, the event was a powerful testament to the employees who consistently go “beyond the call of duty” to protect and manage South Africa’s premier wildlife sanctuary.
A year of stellar performance
The awards program, organised by KNP management, formally acknowledged the crucial contributions that led to a stellar financial year for SANParks.
KNP Managing Executive Oscar Mthimkhulu highlighted the remarkable organizational performance, including a 10% increase in revenue (soaring from R3.67 billion to R4.1 billion) and achieving 86% of performance targets.
This success, coupled with an unqualified audit outcome, speaks volumes about the robust governance and dedicated effort of the staff.
“The awards programme rewards employees based on merit and their crucial contributions to the organisation’s success,” said Mthimkhulu.
Excellence across the board
Recipients demonstrated excellence across a wide spectrum of categories, including outstanding workplace performance, superb client service, effective teamwork, and exceptional creativity.
The selection process was strict, focusing on criteria like extra mile achievements, independent and progressive thinking, and a positive work approach all qualities essential for maintaining the KNP’s world-class standard.
Facility awards were also presented, judging on criteria such as overall performance, guest feedback, and compliance.
Mthimkhulu offered special praise for employees who have served tirelessly for over three decades and those who displayed incredible bravery in rescuing colleagues from imminent danger, showcasing remarkable determination and integrity.
The highest honor: The Kruger Cross
The most prestigious honor, the Bravery Award also known as the Kruger Cross is reserved for exceptional acts performed to save any person’s or animal’s life.
This year, four staff members were rightfully recognized for this ultimate display of heroism: Albert Mkansi, Vusi Lubisi, Katekani Sibuyi, and Nicolus Mathebula.
They were honored for single-handedly placing their own lives in danger by confronting armed suspected poachers or dangerous animals to protect life within the park.
Decades of dedication: lifetime contribution
Management also acknowledged four long-serving employees whose combined efforts represent over a century of commitment to the KNP with the Lifetime Contribution Award:
- Oupa Manzini (28 years of service)
- Richard Vukeya (31 years of service)
- Jairos Chiloane (34 years of service)
- James Mdluli (35 years of service)
In his closing remarks, Mthimkhulu offered a heartfelt congratulations to all the recipients, urging them to “continue to shine the light of the KNP.”
