(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – Conservation efforts in Lantoto National Park gained renewed political backing after government officials, members of parliament, and wildlife stakeholders held a one day consultation meeting in Yei River County, organised by the Enjojo Foundation.
The park stretches across Western and Central Equatoria and is one of South Sudan’s most biodiverse landscapes. It shelters elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, baboons, and even ostriches roaming freely through its grasslands. It is also home to dozens of bird species ranging from doves and pigeons to waterfowl, guineafowl, quails, and grebes, making it one of the few natural birding destinations in the country.
Officials said the park was not only a conservation asset but also an untapped source of tourism income that could rival East African counterparts if properly managed.
State Minister of Animal Resources, Fisheries, and Tourism, Alex Lotiyu Elia, said the foundation’s support to wildlife officers in Yei was an example of how partnerships could boost the sector. He said the park should be treated as both a natural refuge and a driver of rural development through employment and hospitality businesses.
He called for more training for local authorities and awareness campaigns to prevent illegal hunting and land encroachment.
Lasu Payam MP Daniel Lokoroto urged government agencies to maintain transparency in conservation funding and ensure surrounding villages directly benefit. He said locals should be hired as rangers, guides, or cultural hosts instead of being treated as outsiders to the park.
National Chief of Wildlife, Paul Thac, reminded participants that the park belonged to all South Sudanese and said communities must play a role in protecting it.
Central Equatoria MP Victoria Nasira Augustino said past concerns from residents in Lasu and Tore payams about land access could be resolved through dialogue rather than conflict.
Tour operators have also begun to express interest. Ultimate Wild Safaris, one of the few companies currently offering wilderness expeditions in South Sudan, has listed Lantoto among its emerging destinations for adventure visitors. The company said the park was ideal for safaris and birding tours and encouraged travellers to arrange visits via info@ultimatewildsafaris.com.
Participants at the meeting concluded that the only way forward was joint management between the government, non government groups, investors, and local households. They said this would protect wildlife while giving communities a reason to support conservation instead of resisting it.
Potential Benefits of Developing Lantoto National Park
| Opportunity Area | Description | Potential Local Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Community Jobs | Ranger work, tour guiding, hospitality support | Direct income for nearby households |
| Tourism Revenue | Park entry fees, safari bookings, camping permits | Increased county and national earnings |
| Small Business Growth | Craft sales, accommodation huts, food stalls | Boost to local entrepreneurship |
| Birding and Wildlife Tours | Niche tourism targeting international visitors | High value low impact tourism model |
| Conservation Partnerships | NGO and private sector support for infrastructure | Training, equipment, and social services |
| Cross-Border Tourism | Linkages with Uganda and DR Congo parks | Regional travel circuits and longer visitor stays |