Hope for economic rebound as wildlife conservation project launched in Ibba
The initiative, set for Lantoto National Park in Nabanga Payam, aims to protect threatened species and also restore the ecosystem.
By Emmanuel Mandella
Ibba County is staring at an economic boost following the launch of a wildlife conservation project launched on Wednesday by the National Ministry of Wildlife, Conservation, and Tourism in partnership with the Enjojo Foundation.
The initiative, set for Lantoto National Park in Nabanga Payam, aims to protect threatened species and also restore the ecosystem.
Lantoto National Park, demarcated since 1976, was neglected during South Sudan’s protracted conflict during the struggle for independence from Sudan. But now, thanks to Enjojo Foundation, a non-governmental organization working on wildlife conservation, the vision of a thriving protected area is back on track.
Speaking during the launch, Hon. Mary Nawai, National Minister of Parliamentary Affairs who represented the Minister of Wildlife, Conservation, and Tourism, underscored the potential ripple effects of this project.
“This is not just a conservation project. It is a lifeline. It will create jobs, open roads, build schools and hospitals, and even pave the way for international tourism through new airports,” she said.
“We need our people to support Enjojo and allow tourism to bloom in this state. When we protect nature, nature protects us. This is not just about animals, it’s about our future,” the minister affirmed.
According to the Foundation’s Governance Manager, Mr. Aggray Cyrus Kanyikwa, Ibba is the third county to benefit from this drive, following recent launches in Maridi and Mundri West Counties of Western Equatoria State.
“We’ve signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism to support the management of Kidepo Game Park and Lantoto National Park,” said Mr. Kanyikwa.
“Lantoto’s management includes counties like Yei River, Maridi, Ibba, and Mundri West, which all have direct connections to the park. Our role is to bring the community closer to conservation through job creation, tourism, and local ownership.”
Ibba County currently boasts two national parks: one in the north and one in the south, making it a potential tourism goldmine. The southern park will be managed by Enjojo Foundation, while the northern one is overseen by Fauna & Flora International.
Local leaders hailed the initiative but called for inclusive participation as Sultan Wilson Abdu Ngirimo, Payam Chief of Nabanga, stressed the need for tangible benefits for the people on the ground.
“Our community needs to be directly involved. Let them be employed, let them feel the impact,” said Sultan Ngirimo.
Echoing the same sentiment, the Ibba County Youth Chairperson, Mr. Esaya Baya, urged the government to place youth at the center of implementation.
“The youth are the engine of this initiative. We are ready to protect wildlife and ensure security for tourists and conservation teams,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ms. Agnes Michael, Chairlady of Ibba County, appealed for economic inclusion for women.
“We want to see income-generating activities for our women. Hunting during dry seasons is risky and unsustainable,” she noted, also urging the Enjojo Foundation to relocate operations within Ibba for better engagement.
Lastly, County Commissioner of Ibba Mr. Wilson Tetela reaffirmed government commitment to securing the area and backing conservation goals, calling it a “win-win for both the people and the planet.”
South Sudan’s neighbors have long tapped into the power of wildlife tourism. In Uganda, national parks like Murchison Falls and Bwindi have not only protected biodiversity but also generated revenue through permits, accommodation taxes, and employment in the hospitality sector.
Meanwhile, in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Virunga National Park and Garamba once marred by conflict now attracts international tourists, providing livelihoods to thousands and enhancing community resilience.
