Governor, Minister and Tore Community Agree on Way Forward for Lantoto National Park

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – The Governor of Central Equatoria State, Mujung Emmanuel and the National Minister of Wildlife, Conservation and Tourism, Hon. Rizik Zakaria have held talks with leaders of the Tore community week to address concerns surrounding conservation activities in Lantoto National Park.

The meeting at the State Secretariat in Juba on Wednesday was aimed at easing tensions and ensuring the involvement of local communities in decision making on conservation projects.

In a position paper delivered by Salah Aggrey on behalf of the Tore community, the leaders expressed concern that the Ministry had not adequately consulted residents over ongoing conservation programmes. They stressed that while the community supports conservation and the protection of natural resources, it is essential that local voices are included.

Responding to the concerns, the Undersecretary in the Ministry of Wildlife, Conservation and Tourism, Peter Loro Alberto, assured the community that their views were being taken seriously. He said the Enjojo Foundation, which is working with the Ministry, is complementing existing wildlife conservation efforts and would bring tangible benefits to the people once the park is opened to tourists.

The State Minister of Animal Resources, Fisheries and Tourism, Hon. Alex Lotiyu Elia, welcomed the constructive approach of the Tore community. He emphasised that the state government is committed to addressing local grievances, including border disputes with neighbouring Western Equatoria State.

The Chairperson of the Tore community, Ali Hassan Juma, described the discussions as a breakthrough, noting that direct engagement had removed the barriers that previously existed between the Ministry and the local population. He said that the community now feels reassured that it will be consulted in future conservation activities.

Both Governor Mujung and Minister Zakaria reaffirmed their commitment to closer cooperation, stronger relations between different levels of government, and greater inclusivity in conservation projects.

Lantoto National Park lies in Tore Payam of Yei River County and extends into parts of Western Equatoria.It is one of South Sudan’s major conservation areas. The park is home to a wide range of wildlife species and diverse plant life, with hopes that tourism development will bring new economic opportunities to local communities.