Universal Accessibility of National Parks in South Africa and Zimbabwe: Park Management Perceptions

Abstract:

This study sought to establish the perceptions of the management

of National Parks in South Africa and Zimbabwe with respect to

making their parks universally accessible. This study was set

against a background of many people with disabilities who are

willing and financially able to patron national parks being denied

the opportunity to do so due to various barriers. Using a

qualitative approach, the researchers explored the views of the

management of South African National Parks (SANPARKS) and

Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks)

regarding the universal accessibility of National Parks. The study

revealed that, generally, the management of the said parks

appreciate the plight of people with disabilities who want to visit

their parks and would have wanted the parks to be accessible to

all people. However, the managers from SANPARKS seemed more

willing and prepared to make their parks universally accessible

compared to their counterparts from ZimParks.

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