By News Staff BOMA | Friday, March 27, 2026
BOMA — The Ministry of Wildlife, Conservation and Tourism (MWCT), in partnership with African Parks, officially opened the Maruwa Hills Tourist Camp in Boma County on Thursday. The project marks the first phase of a community-centered tourism initiative aimed at leveraging South Sudan’s natural resources for economic development.
The camp is situated within the Great Nile Migration Landscape, home to the world’s largest land mammal migration. Officials stated the pilot project is part of a 10-year partnership signed in 2022 to manage the Boma and Badingilo migratory landscapes across Jonglei, Central Equatoria, and Eastern Equatoria states.
Economic Diversification
During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Minister of Wildlife, Conservation and Tourism Denay Jock Chagor called the opening a historic milestone.
“This is a place that will welcome visitors from across the nation and around the world,” Minister Chagor said. “What was once a question from the community—’What will we gain from this?’—is now being answered. Jobs are being created, incomes are growing, and opportunities are emerging for families.”
GPAA Chief Administrator Gola Boyoi Gola emphasized that the project demonstrates the potential of moving the national economy beyond its reliance on oil. “We must begin to think beyond oil and explore other sectors like tourism, which can bring sustainable opportunities to our people,” Gola stated.
Community-Led Conservation
The project was developed in close coordination with the local Maruwa community. Jan Fourie, Park Manager for Boma National Park, credited local residents as the “real team” behind the achievement.
“This project was not built from the top down,” Fourie said. “The opportunity may have been created through African Parks and our partners, but it is the community that took it forward with their own strength, commitment, and determination.”
Security and Responsibility
As the site prepares to welcome international visitors, officials stressed the importance of local stewardship. Minister Chagor urged the community to prioritize peace and security, noting that the camp now serves as a representative of South Sudan to the global community.
GPAA leadership reiterated their commitment to ensuring a safe environment for tourists to ensure the long-term success of the initiative.