Eastern Equatoria minister for Wildlife Conservation and Tourism called for the regional disarmament of pastoral communities to protect wild animals.
George Echom Ekeno cautioned that unless pastoral communities of Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda and South Sudan are disarmed, wildlife in the country is at risk, Radio Emmanuel reported.The minister called on the inter-Governmental Authority on Development or IGAD and African Union to support the regional disarmament.
He added that Eastern Equatoria would protect, conserve and manage its biodiversity for sustainable use without threats of firearms.
Mr Echom identified some hotspot corridors for deployment of forces to intensify wildlife protection.
The corridors included Imehejek in Lopa County, Nawuyopak and Lotukei in Budi County, Kuron, Naita, Jie, Korukemuge and Loula in Kapoeta.
Others are Hatire in Ikwoto County, Ngomoromo and Pogee in Magwi and Kor English along the Torit-Juba road.
Mr Echom said elephants and white eared knobs are among wildlife species that faces extinction due to massive poaching.
Poachers kill the white eared knobs for meat and the elephants for tusks.
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