Cape Town – SANParks ranger, Joe Nkuna, who was trampled by an elephant at the Kruger National Park (KNP), is recovering well in hospital.
Nkuna, 57, was on patrol with his colleagues at the park in December when a breeding herd of elephants crossed the road in front of them.
He was hospitalised on December 20 after he was charged by one of the elephants at the Pretoriuskop section of the park.
Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Minister Barbara Creecy visited Nkuna in hospital on Saturday, where she said he was well on the road to recovery.
SANParks said Nkuna was on life support in the Intensive Care Unit at a private hospital in Joburg.
“The medical team is pleased with his progress and is excited that he will be starting physiotherapy soon,” SANParks said.
“The Minister was delighted to find the 57-year-old in good spirits and feeling hopeful about his recovery prospects.”
Creecy wished Nkuna and his family all the best.
“I am here this morning to not only remind him he is part of the conservation family but to wish him well as he recovers from his injuries.
“What happened to ranger Nkuna was tragic and I am glad I was able to speak to him. I can say Nkuna is a remarkably brave man. He has endured multiple surgeries since the accident; but he has told me he cannot wait to get back in the bush patrolling, doing the job he is very passionate about. Rangers are our heroes and face danger every time they go into the bush to perform their duties,” Creecy said.
Cape Times