Lantoto Game Park Under Threat from Armed Ambororo/Handout Photo
(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – The Chief Warden of Lantoto National Game Park in South Sudan’s Yei River County has raised alarm over the growing presence of armed Ambororo herders inside the protected area, saying it is putting both wildlife and community safety at serious risk.
Brigadier General Joseph Taban told Access Radio in a telephone interview from Rasol Boma in Tore Payam that large groups of armed pastoralists have settled around the park, causing wild animals to flee deeper into the bush.
“You know there is a large presence of Ambororo cattle herders in the park, and wild animals fear people and livestock moving in their areas. They run away because these armed pastoralists may end up killing the rare animals that we are protecting,” said Taban.
He said the Wildlife Service has already raised the concern with both county and state authorities:
“We have reported this threat to the concerned institutions. What we request from the local government is to start dialogue with these Ambororo herders so that they leave Tore Payam and the game park,” he added.
Taban said wildlife officers continue to carry out regular patrols around Lantoto Park and to educate surrounding communities about the importance of protecting wildlife, which he said attracts tourism and generates revenue for the government.
A three day workshop on wildlife conservation recently concluded in Yei River County, bringing together 20 government officials and community leaders from Tore and Lasu Payams.
The training was organised by the Enjojo Foundation with support from African Parks and other international conservation partners.
The workshop focused on involving local communities in wildlife protection and the preservation of natural habitats, which participants said is key to supporting tourism and community development.
South Sudan is home to six national game parks, but insecurity and poor road infrastructure continue to limit tourism potential. Lantoto, one of the country’s oldest protected areas, is among those most affected by conflict and the movement of armed herders.
Lantoto Game Park Situation
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Location | Lantoto National Game Park, Yei River County, Central Equatoria State |
| Main Issue | Armed Ambororo cattle herders occupying parts of the park |
| Reported By | Brigadier General Joseph Taban, Chief Warden of Lantoto Game Park |
| Impact on Wildlife | Wild animals fleeing the park due to human and livestock presence |
| Security Concern | Armed herders may kill rare species and threaten rangers |
| Authorities Informed | County and State governments in Central Equatoria |
| Actions Taken | Regular patrols and community sensitisation by wildlife officers |
| Call to Action | Dialogue between government and Ambororo herders to vacate park |
| Recent Event | Three day wildlife conservation workshop in Yei River County |
| Organisers | Enjojo Foundation and African Parks with local partners |
| Tourism Challenge | Insecurity and poor infrastructure limiting visitor access |
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