South Sudan Moves to Secure UNESCO Status for Boma Badingilo

(JUBA) – South Sudan has finalised and submitted an emergency nomination for the Boma Badingilo Migration Landscape to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization for consideration as a World Heritage Site.

The cover letter for the nomination was endorsed by the Ministry of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism and the Ministry of Culture, Museums and National Heritage before being forwarded to the UNESCO World Heritage Office in Paris.

Officials said the nomination marks a key step in efforts to secure international recognition and protection for one of Africa’s largest intact wildlife ecosystems. The Boma Badingilo Jonglei landscape hosts the annual Great Nile Migration, during which millions of white eared kob, tiang and Mongalla gazelle move across vast savannahs and wetlands.

The signing event brought together representatives from both ministries, conservation partners and members of the media. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding South Sudan’s natural heritage and strengthening cooperation on conservation initiatives.

Authorities said the nomination reflects a broader effort to protect critical habitats, preserve cultural identity linked to the landscape and support communities through sustainable conservation practices.

Conservation experts describe the migration as one of the most significant wildlife movements in the world. The largely undisturbed ecosystem is seen as unique not only in Africa but globally, with its scale and ecological integrity remaining largely intact.

Government officials and partners said they will continue working with local communities to ensure wildlife species and ecosystems in the Boma Badingilo landscape are protected for future generations.

If approved, World Heritage status could enhance international support for conservation, tourism development and environmental protection in South Sudan, reinforcing the country’s position as a custodian of one of the continent’s most important natural assets.