(BOMA, EASTERN EQUATORIA) – Five young people from local communities have begun a six month practical training programme with African Parks (AP) in Boma National Park to gain hands on experience in building, welding and electrical work.
The initiative is part of African Parks’ ongoing effort to equip youth with marketable skills for local employment opportunities and community development projects. The training targets participants from the neighbouring areas of Nyat, Kassengor, Otallo, Maruwa, Pibor, Labarab, and Badingilo. Organisers said the programme also supports broader efforts across the Great Nile Migration landscape, which spans multiple South Sudanese counties.
Funding and coordination support from the Ministry of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism (MWCT) and other partners have been critical to launching the programme. African Parks representatives highlighted that the project aligns with their mission to strengthen local communities while promoting wildlife protection.
“This programme gives young people the skills needed to contribute to local projects and future employment,” a park official said. “At the same time, it helps communities play an active role in safeguarding our wildlife and natural resources.”
The trainees will spend six months rotating across various operational teams, learning practical techniques in construction, welding, and electrical maintenance. Organisers expect that these skills will enable the participants to take on jobs in park management, infrastructure development, and other local enterprises.
African Parks has emphasised that community engagement is key to the long term sustainability of conservation efforts in South Sudan. By combining practical skills training with conservation objectives, the programme aims to create a model that benefits both people and the environment.
“The partnership between African Parks, MWCT, and local communities shows how targeted skills development can support sustainable livelihoods while protecting wildlife,” the programme director said.
| Participant Skills | Expected Benefits | Potential Careers |
|---|---|---|
| Building & Construction | Local infrastructure projects | Construction worker, site assistant |
| Welding | Metalwork for park facilities | Welder, repair technician |
| Electricity | Maintenance of electrical systems | Electrician, maintenance support |
African Parks has run similar youth engagement and skills building programmes in other African countries, and the organisation hopes this initiative will encourage broader participation from South Sudanese youth in conservation and development projects.