“Peace and Security” Key to Unlocking South Sudan’s Tourism Potential, Says Domestic Tourist

(TORE PAYAM, YEI RIVER COUNTY) – A young South Sudanese domestic tourist, journalist and community social worker is calling on national, state and local governments to restore peace and security as a way of promoting tourism and driving economic growth across South Sudan.

Speaking to Access Radio via WhatsApp from Lantoto National Park on Tuesday, Christopher Taharir described the park as one of South Sudan’s most strategic tourism destinations, with the potential to attract visitors from across East and Central Africa due to its rich wildlife, scenic landscapes and diverse ecosystems.

Taharir said wildlife conservation organisation Enjojo Foundation has been working to promote wildlife protection, establish tourism sites and improve access to the park through the development of an airstrip.

Speaking from the park, he shared his experience of domestic tourism and highlighted the government’s role in creating a favourable environment for both local and international visitors.

“I am right now at Lantoto National Game Park, and the park has savannah grasslands, forests, mountains and beautiful scenery, including an airstrip. I have been seeing different kinds of animal species at the park here,” Taharir said.

He stressed that peace and security remain critical factors for the growth of South Sudan’s tourism industry.

“No one wants to travel in fear, and therefore peace and security are a foundation for tourism because both local and international tourists want peace so that they can move without fear. Security is highly needed for safety assurance, and this park is an asset with all ecosystems for tourism,” he said.

Taharir also urged the government to invest in infrastructure such as roads, water systems and other essential services to attract more investment in the tourism sector.

According to him, investment in tourism could generate significant revenue for the country while creating employment opportunities for thousands of South Sudanese.

He further noted that Lantoto National Park is home to a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, monkeys, gorillas, baboons and several other species. He added that some wildlife from neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo has recently migrated into the area due to favourable environmental conditions.

Taharir believes that improving security across the country would send a strong message to potential visitors and investors.

“What we want is peace and security to promote this great sector and when people feel safe, it sends a strong message to international tourists to visit the country. This can also be a great driver for economic development in the country,” he said.

Tourism experts have often pointed to South Sudan’s vast natural attractions and wildlife resources as untapped opportunities that could contribute to economic diversification if supported by improved security, infrastructure and conservation efforts.

Lantoto National Park, located in Tore Payam of Yei River County in Central Equatoria State, borders the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo. The park extends into Maridi, Mundri, Ibba and Nzara counties in Western Equatoria State, making it one of South Sudan’s largest and most strategically important conservation areas.