South Sudan wildlife minister vows to protect heritage sites, praises African Parks work

JUBA – South Sudan’s Minister of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism, Denay Jock Chagor, on Monday committed the government to protecting the country’s natural heritage, praising the work of the non-profit African Parks in managing the vast Badingilo-Boma landscape.

Minister Chagor made the pledge following a high-level visit to the Badingilo National Park Headquarters (BHQ) from November 18-19, which he said underscored a stronger partnership between his ministry and the conservation group.

“What I am seeing today truly delights me. This is not only a park – it is a place where peace can be built,” Chagor said in a statement extended to Sudans Post, highlighting that officers from all of South Sudan’s tribes were working together at the site.

He described the conservation efforts he witnessed as a “model” for the country, demonstrating integrity, transparency, and a real impact on local communities and wildlife.

He urged local park staff, “Protect your land, protect your history, protect your heritage. What you are doing is not for anyone else; it is for yourselves.”

The Minister’s visit included a meeting with local stakeholders in Nyat, including the Chief Administrator of the Greater Pibor Administrative Area, Gola Boyoi.

He also toured significant conservation sites like the Nyat Training College and Maruwa Camp, which was established to host tourists.

The engagement highlighted new opportunities for community-based tourism, an initiative aimed at strengthening the sector by ensuring that conservation and tourism jointly deliver economic benefits and cultural pride for local populations.

For his part, Florington Aseervatham, the African Parks Country Representative, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to the government partnership.

“This visit reaffirms our shared commitment to protecting the Badingilo–Boma landscape,” Aseervatham said. “We are proud to work with government and communities to build a future where conservation brings stability and opportunity.”

African Parks, which manages Boma and Badingilo National Parks under a 10-year agreement, remains dedicated to supporting South Sudan’s conservation goals through inclusive, transparent, and locally grounded approaches.

The video below explains the unique nature of the Boma and Badingilo National Parks, which are home to the largest land mammal migration on Earth.