Question NW2776 to the MINISTER OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND LAND REFORM
18 October 2018 - NW2776
Hunsinger, Mr CH to ask the MINISTER OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND LAND REFORM
(1) With regard to the Mala Mala deal which cost taxpayers R70,000 per hectare and the Kruger National Park deal of R84 million which cost taxpayers approximately R560,00 per hectare, why is there such a huge difference in price when both Mala Mala and Kruger National Park are similar in value regarding game, including the Big 5 territory and natural habitat; (2) are there beneficiaries that benefitted from both the Mala Mala and Kruger National Park claims; if so, why did they benefit twice?
Reply:
1) The prices for Mala Mala and Kruger National Park were determined by professional valuers appointed by the Department on the basis of the distinct approaches. For Mala Mala, the valuers determined the current value using the comparable sales method for the purposes of acquisition of the properties whereas for the Kruger National Park, the valuers determined the historical value which was subsequently escalated to the present value in line with the Consumer Price Index for the purpose of determining financial compensation due to the claimants. Consequently the amounts paid for Mala Mala and Kruger National Park cannot be the same.
(2) Yes, there are beneficiaries who experienced multiple removals from both Kruger National Park (KNP) and to the private game reserves (including Mala Mala) next to the park (KNP).