, in collaboration with African Parks and the European Union (EU), marked World Nature Conservation Day 2025 with a renewed call for global solidarity in protecting South Sudan’s rich and fragile natural heritage.){kind=link}
By Ginaba Lino
Juba, South Sudan – The Ministry of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism (MWCT), in collaboration with African Parks and the European Union (EU), marked World Nature Conservation Day 2025 with a renewed call for global solidarity in protecting South Sudan’s rich and fragile natural heritage.
Speaking during the commemoration, General Khamis Adieng, Director General of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism, urged the government, development partners, and stakeholders to unite in protecting the Great Nile Migration Landscape (GNML) and safeguarding the country’s ecosystems.
“In just two years, we’ve seen a paradigm shift in how the GNML is managed—from cutting-edge monitoring to community empowerment. This partnership proves that South Sudan can protect its greatest natural asset while uplifting the people who depend on it,” said Gen. Adieng.
He acknowledged the progress made by the ministry and its partners, while also expressing concern over the damage caused by decades of conflict and neglect.
“South Sudan’s vast savannahs, the Sudd wetlands, and its critical migration corridors have long supported both wildlife and communities. However, years of conflict and underinvestment have left these ecosystems increasingly vulnerable.”
Timo Olkkonen, EU Ambassador to South Sudan, emphasized that wildlife conservation can drive sustainable development through ecotourism and responsible use of natural resources.
“The EU stands with South Sudan in protecting lives, livelihoods, and the future of a region that matters to the world,” he said.
Dorette Smit, African Parks’ country representative, highlighted community collaboration as the foundation for lasting conservation.
Clip: Cooperation with communities
“Working side-by-side with communities and government, we’ve laid the groundwork for lasting conservation and supported alternative livelihoods.”
In 2022, African Parks and the Government of South Sudan signed a 10-year agreement to rehabilitate, manage, and conserve Badingilo and Boma National Parks—home to the world’s largest animal migration. The partnership focuses on ecosystem restoration, ecotourism development, and climate resilience.