JUBA — The massive seasonal migration of animals across South Sudan’s protected landscapes is increasingly posing an existential threat to more sedentary species whose survival now depends on shrinking water sources and isolated habitats.
A joint statement from the Ministry of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism (MWCT), African Parks, and the European Union (EU) issued on World Nature Conservation Day Monday, draws attention to the plight of species like buffalo, waterbuck, oryx, and ostrich, which are struggling to cope with harsh environmental conditions and dwindling access to permanent water.
“These species, based on historical data, are present as remnants of their previous populations, some at less than 1% of what was noted in the 1970s,” the statement reads. It added that some animals are now “increasingly limited to areas with permanent water sources, which have become critically scarce.”
The natural pressure is exacerbated by the country’s famed wildlife migration — the largest land mammal migration on Earth — which sees hundreds of thousands of white-eared kob and other species move across Boma and Badingilo National Parks each year. While spectacular, the migration creates intense competition for resources, endangering already vulnerable resident species.
In response, the Government of South Sudan in 2022 entered into a 10-year partnership with African Parks, backed by the EU and other partners, to restore and manage these critical ecosystems. The parks cover parts of Jonglei, Central Equatoria, and Eastern Equatoria states, home to both migratory and sedentary species.
The conservation initiative is already showing signs of progress, according to authorities. So far, 220 giraffes and 330 elephants have been identified through aerial surveys and monitoring. More than 200 animals are currently being tracked using satellite collars, allowing rangers to monitor movements and identify critical stress zones.
The partnership, the partners note, is also investing in community-centred conservation. “Conservation teams are working hand-in-hand with communities to support livelihoods, share knowledge, and foster peaceful coexistence with wildlife,” the partners said. Local projects such as honey production, school outreach, and infrastructure improvements are being used to strengthen community engagement and encourage long-term stewardship.
One of the most ambitious components of the initiative is the planned opening of South Sudan’s first natural tourist camp in Maruwa, Pibor Administrative Area, in 2026, signalling a gradual turn toward sustainable tourism.
While challenges persist, officials believe that the combination of science-led conservation and community participation offers a pathway to protect South Sudan’s threatened species and ecosystems for future generations.
