By James Innocent
Stakeholders have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting Lantoto National Park.
The officials made the promised during a one-day conservation meeting organized by the Enjojo Foundation.
Among those who attended the meeting were Yei River County Executives, parliamentarians, and conservation groups.
The meeting, which brought together national, state, and county leaders, focused on strengthening wildlife conservation efforts in the park, which spans both Western and Central Equatoria states.
During the meeting Alex Lotiyu Elia, State Minister of Animal Resources, Fisheries, and Tourism, praised the Enjojo Foundation for supporting wildlife teams in Yei, noting that conservation requires joint responsibility between the government and local communities.
He emphasized the need for training local officials and raising awareness about the park’s significance for both tourism and development.
“Lantoto National Park is not only about tourism, but also a development initiative that will transform the lives of surrounding communities,” Lotiyu said.
Daniel Lokoroto, an MP representing Lasu Payam, also commended the initiative, stressing that the park has existed for many years and requires stronger conservation.
He urged the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders to ensure accurate information sharing and accountability in managing the park.
Lokoroto further highlighted the importance of involving local communities in decision-making and creating job opportunities through empowerment.
Representing the national government, Paul Thac, Chief of Wildlife, said the park’s benefits belong to all South Sudanese.
He called on communities to support animal protection in line with conservation regulations and praised the Enjojo Foundation for its steadfast role in safeguarding wildlife.
Meanwhile, Victoria Nasira Augustino, an MP from Central Equatoria State, said the discussions were crucial given the past concerns of residents in Lasu and Tore payams, who expressed dissatisfaction with the park’s proximity to their communities.
The conservation meeting ended with a renewed call for collaboration between government institutions, non-governmental organizations, and local communities to ensure Lantoto National Park remains a protected area for both biodiversity and sustainable development.