South Sudan Opens First Community-Centred Tourist Camp in Boma's Great Nile Migration Landscape
South Sudan's Ministry of Wildlife, Conservation and Tourism (MWCT), in partnership with African Parks, has officially opened the Maruwa Hills Tourist Camp in Boma County, Greater Pibor Administrative Area, marking the country's first community-centred tourism initiative of its kind. The camp, opened on 27 March 2026 by Minister of Wildlife, Conservation and Tourism Denay Jock Chagor, is situated within the Great Nile Migration Landscape - home to the world's largest land mammal migration - and forms the first phase of a broader long-term vision for sustainable tourism development in one of Africa's last great wilderness regions. The initiative builds on a landmark 10-year partnership between the Government of South Sudan and African Parks, established in 2022, to manage the Boma and Badingilo Migratory Landscape across three states.
Designed to be deeply rooted in local culture, traditions and knowledge, the camp is intended to generate direct economic benefits for surrounding communities through job creation, income growth and visitor spending, while strengthening local stewardship of the landscape. Minister Chagor noted that the initiative is already delivering tangible results, stating: "What was once a question from the community - 'What will we gain from this?' - is now being answered." African Parks Park Manager Jan Fourie emphasised the community-driven nature of the project, crediting local involvement as central to its success. The opening signals a significant step in South Sudan's efforts to diversify its economy beyond oil and position itself as an emerging destination anchored in conservation-led, responsible tourism.
Source: Radio Tamazuj