Insights from fieldwork in the Kruger area, South Africa
During late May 2016 members of P1t Lab South Africa (based at University of Johannesburg ) and P1t Lab North Carolina spent time doing research in the Bushbuckridge area close to the Orpen Gate of the Kruger National Park (aka Kruger area). Kruger is one of South Africa’s main tourist attractions that offers visitors the opportunity to view the iconic Big Five (Rhino, Lion, Leopard, Buffalo and Elephant). However, Kruger is a highly contested space. After the change from the apartheid regime to a democratic government in 1994, the park has faced a number of challenges from moving from fortress style conservation style management to more democratic and inclusive management practices. Of late, draconian fortress management is systematically returning. This has been largely due to the dramatic rise of poaching of Rhino for use of its horn for its supposed health benefits in Southeast Asia. In response, individuals, private and public institutions are waging war