Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency employees have decided to go on strike and closed off a number of tourism attractions in Mpumalanga yesterday and today. The employees toy-toyed in front of Manyeleti Game Reserve, God’s Windows, the Three Rondavels and the Kruger National Park demanding a resolution to an on-going industrial dispute.
Loot Shulz, Pungwe Bush Camp, explains MTPA employees announced they would deny tourists access to the game park. The announcement caused quite some panic amongst lodge owners, Schulz says. He adds: “We are worried, but the boys (the strikers) have my sympathy.” A representative of African Ivory Route confirmed he had also been told that for the time being, tourists would be denied access to the game reserve.
Reynold Thakhuli, spokesperson for Sanparks, confirmed protesters had blocked off the main route to the Kruger National Park yesterday morning. Yesterday afternoon, the situation had been cleared, but Sanparks has continued to advice travellers to avoid the Paul Kruger Gate and rather enter the park through Numbi Gate or Phabene Gate.
MTPA could not be reached for comments. An anonymous source explained the organisation’s telephone lines had been cut off.
Michael Tatalias, ceo Satsa, explains the situation in Mpumalanga is a concern especially at a time when the inbound industry is bleeding. He says: “The last thing we need are uncooperative strikers when we need to give the tourists that are visiting the full experience though we do understand their concerns. Their protests need to be made responsibly.” He adds that this is a short-term issue and the private sector is pulling together to work around the situation.
