South Sudan makes new chapter for tourism as Maruwa Hills tourist camp opens in Boma

2026-03-26 - 19:54

South Sudan has officially opened its first community-centered tourism site, with leaders hailing it as a major step toward conservation and economic growth. The Ministry of Wildlife, Conservation and Tourism (MWCT), in partnership with African Parks, on Thursday launched the Maruwa Hills Tourist Camp in the Greater Pibor Administrative Area, describing it as a pilot project for sustainable tourism in one of Africa’s most significant ecological landscapes. Located within the Great Nile Migration Landscape — home to the world’s largest land mammal migration — the camp is expected to serve as an entry point for visitors while promoting conservation and local livelihoods. Officials said the initiative is designed to balance environmental protection with economic opportunity, ensuring that communities benefit directly from tourism. “This is a historic and proud moment for our country,” said the Minister of Wildlife, Conservation and Tourism. “We are opening the first tourism site of its kind in South Sudan — a place that will welcome visitors from across the nation and around the world.” The minister added that early benefits are already visible. “Through this partnership with African Parks, we are seeing real change: jobs are being created, incomes are growing, and opportunities are emerging for families,” he said. He also called on local communities to maintain peace and security. “This place now represents South Sudan to the world... it is your role to show that this area is peaceful, welcoming, and ready to host the world.” The project stems from a 10-year agreement signed in 2022 between the government and African Parks to manage the Boma-Badingilo migratory landscape across Jonglei, Central Equatoria and Eastern Equatoria. Greater Pibor Chief Administrator Gola Boyoi Gola described the launch as a turning point for the region. “Today is truly a historic day for our people. This is the first project of its kind, and it shows what is possible when we work together,” he said. “This is also a new direction for our country. We must begin to think beyond oil and explore other sectors like tourism, which can bring sustainable opportunities to our people.” Park Manager Jan Fourie said the camp represents the realization of a vision that began just over a year ago. “Standing here today, we are witnessing that vision come to life. It is a proud and humbling moment for me and my team,” he said. He emphasized the role of the local community in delivering the project. “This project was not built from the top down... it is the community that took it forward — with their own strength, commitment, and determination.” Fourie added that the camp is only a starting point. “If we want this to succeed, we must work together to protect the wildlife, restore these ecosystems, and ensure that this land continues to provide for future generations.” Philip Winter, Chair of the African Parks South Sudan Board, said the initiative reflects a shared long-term vision. “It represents a defining moment for conservation-led development in South Sudan,” he said, adding that the project ensures “local people remain central beneficiaries of their own landscape.” France’s Ambassador to South Sudan, Philippe Michel-Kleisbauer, also attended the launch, describing conservation as a symbol of freedom and future generations. “What you are building here is not only for today — it is for the next generation,” he said. “I look forward to coming back again — and I hope to be among the first tourists to experience this place.” The Maruwa Hills project is expected to expand gradually, with officials stressing that tourism development will remain environmentally responsible and aligned with long-term conservation plans. Authorities say the initiative positions South Sudan as an emerging ecotourism destination while reinforcing its identity as the “Land of Great Abundance.”