Scattering ashes in South African National Parks (SANParks), including the Kruger National Park (KNP), is a practice that has been in place for years. However, there are specific procedures and guidelines to follow to ensure respect for the environment and other visitors.
In their media release on 30 October 2013, regarding the procedure of scattering of ashes in the Kruger National Park, they said:
“We would like to inform people who place such items without permission from Management that their items would be removed as they contaminate the environment and detracts from the ambience of the Park. Not only is this a contravention of the National Environmental Management: Protection Areas Act No. 57 of 2003; but it is also disrespectful to other visitors to the KNP,” said the General Manager: Conservation Manager, Dr Freek Venter.
As per the policy, visitors are welcome to send in written requests to scatter ashes in the bush or to place plaques/benches in memory of their loved ones but permission must be granted by Management beforehand. The relevant staff will then find the proper locality for them, in line with the conditions and relevant legislation; as long as no item is left behind and there is no private ceremony that may impact on the experience of other visitors.
It must also be noted that approval for these requests does not constitute current or future unrestricted, free access to the park nor does it allow exclusivity for family members over any other visitor to the Park.
In 2021, Table Mountain National Park authority took to Facebook to put out a notice asking people not to simple do as they wished and respect the park and its’s guests…
“our rangers have also come across shrines and urns placed in memorial of loved ones who have passed on, we are sympathetic to your loss and understand that our park users would like to remember their loved ones in the park which they fondly used. However, SANParks considers it a contravention when an urn with cremated remains is buried, outside of an existing grave or burial site in a National Park, or without the knowledge of, or mandatory permission from management.
Should urns and shrines with ashes be found in a National Park, SANParks staff members will hand these over to the SAPS. The Park does not allow for the burial or placement of urns in any area, but we do allow for the scattering of ashes at a designated area in the park. “
The comments on the post appear to the general mix of people wishing to have their voiced heard, but generally supportive of the Authority.
SANParks urges members of the public to report any of these activities by contacting the Emergency number at 086 110 6417 if/when you see someone vandalising the park. Visitors are kindly requested to adhere to and respect the rules of the park.
The problem seems to be countrywide with all National Parks having to put policies in place, but they are also sensitive to the subject and are not saying NO to the practice but urges people to follow the proper channels for permission and to do it sensitively and respectfully to the environment. Most parks have dedicated areas for the scattering of ashes and the best is to get hold of your local park administrator to make arrangements and obtain a permit.
For more information in obtaining an permit, please send and email with your intent and the below information through to:
Munzhedzi.Muhanelwa@sanparks.org
- Date you intend to scatter the ashes:
- Name & Surname of Permit Holder:
- ID Number or Passport Number:
- Contact details:
- Total number of adults and children that will be attending the ceremony:
Much love, Megan
