We are finally here! Holidays, and Christmas and New Year all in one!
Firstly, an apology to Tim Baynham in last month’s edition (on scorpions) for mentioning a upcoming series on ‘many this poisonous’ – that should have read ‘many things venomous’! Bush 101 mistake!
Secondly, our thoughts and prayers also go out to all those effected by the ‘tornado’ in the Essex area – those injured and the farmers that have lost crops. Nature can be a vicious and powerful adversary when it wants.
The hospital
It is also important to find out what’s happening with our hospital – which is what we did. The construction of the Hoedspruit Hospital is now well underway, and, despite a few setbacks, overall progress has been steady. The Bulk Earthworks started on 7 June 2023 and building works on 14 August 2023. There are currently 18 management staff and 157 laborers on site.
Inclement weather conditions have impacted on progress with 13 rain days between 27 September and 21 November. There were also 13 days of excessive heat between 4 October and 23 November with a high of 46 degrees recorded on 21 October.
Key appointments have now been made for electrical installation, structural steel, plumbing, mini substations and roof sheeting. Domestic subcontractors were appointed for formwork, sundry metalworks, steel door frames and timber doors. Appointments are still pending for medical gas, air-conditioning, aluminium doors and windows, and mechanical.
Despite some delays and challenges, the construction of the Hoedspruit Hospital is progressing very well and still on track for hand-over by 31 July 2024. Vigilant management, strategic recovery plans, and ongoing communication and liaison with subcontractors have been crucial and will continue to ensure project progress and success.
Ambulance Initiative
A CPF initiative has been actioned following on an incident (suspected heart attack) of a resident in Hoedspruit needing to be transported urgently to Nelspruit by ambulance and no ambulance being available. Discussions will be taking place on having an ambulance depot being established in Hoedspruit. This would conveniently fall in with the new hospital being opened, and ensure that the town has enough ambulances to cope with potential demand. We look forward to following up on this proactive initiative by the CPF.
Justice
Good news on the conservation front – three poachers were sentenced in the Skukuza Regional Court on 6 December to an effective six to eight years for rhino poaching related criminal activities. They were arrested in 2017 in the Kruger Park driving a hired vehicle that upon inspection contained a high calibre hunting rifle, ammunition, and backpacks of food. A fourth suspect was sentenced back in August 2023. Happy to see the wheels of justice turning, albeit slowly.
Hoedspruit – a provincial winner!
On a happy and proud note – Hoedspruit emerged as the provincial winner for the best small town in Limpopo to visit in a Daily Maverick ‘survey’. Hoedspruit was noted for its community spirit, safari, activities, and plain natural beauty. Well done to the ‘Hoed’!
So, as we get that end-of-year spirit up and running, we at the Kruger2Canyon News ask that you all be vigilant and safe over this time, and we look forward to 2024 and what the year brings.
Happy Christmas and happy New Year to all!
