“LAND OF GREAT ABUNDANCE’’

SOUTH SUDAN TOURISM ATTRACTIONS

Presented By:

2^nd Lt. Gen. Rizik Zakaria Hassan

Minister

Ministry of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism

Republic of South Sudan

Juba

Table of Contents

Country Profile
Country Profile
Introduction
3.1.Vision
3.2.Mission
3.3.Mandate
3.4.Tourism Oibjectives
Pillars of Tourism Industry in South Sudan
The Tourism Attractions of the Republic of South Sudan
5.1. Natural Tourism Attractions
South Sudan’s Climate Zones
5.1.1.1. Lowland Forest
5.1.1.2.Savannah Woodland
5.1.1.3.Grassland Savannah
5.1.1.4. Flood Plain
5.1.1.5.Sudd Swamps and other Wetlands
5.1.1.6.Montane Forest
5.1.1.7.Semi-arid Region
Springs
Annual Migration of White-Eared Kobs and Tiang
The Nile
Falls
Mountains and Hills
Forest
Caves
5.2.Historical Sites in South Sudan
The Famous Tamarind Tree
King George’s House
Diem Zubair
Fashoda Incident
Torit Muting
Commando Operation HQs (SPLA)
Himodonge
The Shrine of Late Rev. (father) Saturolino Ohure
Gbudue Tomb
5.2.10.The Mausoleum of Late Dr. John Garang De Mabior
The Mausoleum of Late Ali Abdelatif and Abdel Fadil Almaz in Wau
5.2.12.Gondokoro
5.2.13.Ariith Makuei Site in Awiel
5.2.14.Ngundeng Shrine
5.3.Cultural Tourism Attractions
Destinations
Tribes and Activities
Cultural items
Languages
Religion Conventional/ Traditional
Ethnic Groups
Society
Indigenous Music
Cattle Camps
5.3.10.South Sudan States, Tribes, and Counties
5.3.10.1.Western Equatoria State’ Tribes
5.3.10.2.Western Equatoria State’ Counties
5.3.10.3.Central Equatoria State’s Tribes
5.3.10.4.Central Equatoria State’s Counties
5.3.10.5.Eastern Equatoria State’s Tribes
5.3.10.6.Eastern Equatoria State’s Counties
5.3.10.7.Jonglei State’ Tribes
5.3.10.8.Jonglei State’ Counties
5.3.10.9.Upper Nile State’s Tribes
5.3.10.10.Upper Nile State’s Counties
5.3.10.11.Unity State’s Tribes
5.3.10.12.Unity State’s Counties
5.3.10.13.Northern Bahr El Ghazal State’ Tribes
5.3.10.14.Northern Bahr El Ghazal State’ Counties
5.3.10.15.Warrap State’s Tribes
5.3.10.16.Warrap State’s Counties
5.3.10.17.Western Bahr EL Ghazal State’s Tribes
5.3.10.18.Western Bahr EL Ghazal State’s Counties
5.3.10.19.Lakes State’s Tribes
5.3.10.20.Lakes State’s Counties
5.3.10.21.Administrative Areas
5.3.10.21.1.Abiyie Administrative Area’s Tribes
5.3.10.21.2.Abiyie Administrative Area’s Counties
5.3.10.21.3.Pibor Administrative Area’s Tribes
5.3.10.21.4.Pibor Administrative Area’s Counties
5.3.10.21.5.Ruweng Administrative Area’s Tribes
5.3.10.21.6.Ruweng Administrative Area’s Counties
5.3.10.22.Communities Found in Two (2) or more States
5.3.10.22.1.Avukaya Community
5.3.10.22.2.Balanda Community
5.3.10.22.3.Dinka Community
5.3.10.22.4.Zande Community
5.3.10.22.5.Bongo Community
5.3.10.22.6.Nuer Community
5.4. South Sudan Wildlife and the Protected Areas (Pas)
South Sudan’s National Parks
5.4.1.1.Nimule National Park
5.4.1.2.Badingilo National Park
5.4.1.3.Boma National Park
5.4.1.4.Southern National Park
5.4.1.5.Shambe National Park
5.4.1.6.Lantoto National Park
South Sudan’s Game Reserves
Wildlife Species of South Sudan
Birds Species of South Sudan

6. Investment Opportunities in Tourism

2. COUNTRY PROFILE

Location: A landlocked country in Eastern Africa.
Country’s Brand: Land of Great Abundance
Neighboring Countries: Central Africa Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Sudan and Uganda.
Demography: With an area of 644,329 Km² and an estimated population of 12.2 million, the country has a low population density- at 19 people per Km². Population growth is estimated at 3.2 per cent per year, one of the highest rates of demographic expansion in the world.
Capital: Juba
Regional Economic Community Membership(s): EAC, COMESA, IGAD.
Official Language(s): English, Public Language - Arabic and Others.
Religion: Christianity, Islam and Traditional Beliefs.
Main Exports: Crude Oil, Timber, Gold, Gum Arabic, etc.
Currency: South Sudanese Pound (SSP)
International Dialing Code: +211
Major National Sports: Football, Athletics, Tennis, Basketball, Wrestling, etc.
Climate: South Sudan has tropical type of climate, with high humidity and significant rainfall. Though there is regional variation due to altitude and terrain, the rainy season affects all parts of the Country and occurs from April through November annually. While the dry season is from December to March.

3. INTRODUCTION

South Sudan is richly endowed with Wildlife, Natural, Cultural and Historical Tourism resources and attractions. The strength of Tourism is untapped quality of vast wilderness areas, the massive Wildlife Migration at Boma and Badingilo National Parks; the great rapids and water falls, the well documented cultures of known South Sudanese Tribes and unique combinations of Nature, Heritage and Culture. These attractions are valued by international visitors as exemplified by growth of tourism investment throughout other Eastern African Countries.

Therefore, the Government of the Republic of South Sudan recognizes that Tourism and Hospitality Industry has potential to contribute to economic growth.

3.1. VISION

A well-regulated Tourism sector, with high quality Private Sector investments providing a unique Tourism experience meeting international standards and Tourist needs.

3.2 MISSION

To develop Tourism into a leading export sector contributing to economic growth and employment in a manner that is culturally appropriate and environmentally sustainable.

3.3 MANDATE

To develop and promote Tourist and Hotel Industry in the Republic of South Sudan.

3.4 TOURISM OBJECTIVES:

To ensure that Tourism becomes a leading sector for poverty eradication and economic development of the citizens while contributing towards the conservation of natural resources and the environment.
To ensure that Tourism becomes one of the main export sectors with high contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and mechanism for the RSS economics’ growth.
To develop, preserve and maintain cultural institutions such as Museums, Monuments, Cultural Sites, Theaters, etc.

4. PILLARS OF TOURISM INDUSTRY IN SOUTH SUDAN

Hospitalities facilities, Hotels and Catering Association
Tour and Travel Agencies
Recreational Gardens and Facilities

5. THE TOURISM ATTRACTIONS OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH SUDAN

The below four phenomena constitutes the major Tourism Attractions in the Republic of South Sudan, namely: -

Natural Tourism Attractions
Historical Sites in South Sudan
Cultural Tourism Attractions
South Sudan Wildlife and the Protected Areas (Wildlife-based) Tourism

5.1 NATURAL TOURISM ATTRACTIONS:

Natural Tourism Attractions are geographical or biological features that have a specific appeal to the tourism Market, Natural attractions includes Deserts, Polar Regions, Rainforest, Alpine Areas, Woodlands, Grasslands, Mountains, Beaches, Swamps, Caves, Cliffs, Falls, and Rivers as well as the unique life forms that inhabits those environments (animals, birds, insects and plants).

South Sudan Climatic Zones

The climate zones are very important sources of Natural Tourism Attraction, and they form different attractions of Fauna and Flora.

3.4.1.1.Lowland Forest

South Sudan’s tropical lowland moist forest is confined to a few scattered small localities in the southwest near its borders with the Central African Republic (CAR), the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda as well as the foothills of the Imotong Mountains. This habitat type represents the very northernmost of the Congo Basin forests including small areas on the Aloma Plateau in Yei County, Azza Forest in Maridi County, and the Yambio area. With its Congo Basin biogeographic affinity, this habitat type has some fauna and flora similar to that of Central Africa. It is home to threatened species like the eastern chimpanzee, both forest and savannah elephants as well as diverse forest communities. The lowland bongo, forest buffalo, giant forest hog, red river hog, and a number of forest monkeys exists in these areas. Other lowland forests also occur in the Loti, Talanga and Lobone areas in Eastern Equatoria State.

3.4.1.2. Savannah Woodland

South Sudan’s savannah woodland forms the largest ecological region in South Sudan where it stretches diagonally from the north-western borders of South Sudan with Northern Sudan along the CAR, DRC and Ugandan borders in Western and Central Equatoria States to Magwi County in Eastern Equatoria State. This region forms ecotones between the patches of lowland forest to the west and grassland savannah and floodplains to the east, and sits primarily on the Ironstone Plateau of South Sudan. Common large mammals of the wooded savannah include the elephant, hippopotamus, waterbuck, bushbuck, Oribi, duikers, Uganda Kob, warthogs, hartebeest covering northern, eastern and south-eastern parts of South Sudan’s floodplains habitat. This area is characterized by open short grasslands with scattered trees and shrubs. Dominant woody vegetation here includes species of Acacia, Balanites and Combretum. Dominant perennial grasses include Hyperrhenia, Andropogon, Panicum and several other species. Various species of mammals inhabiting this region include some globally threatened ones such as the cheetah (Acynonix jubatus), wild dog (Lycaon pictus), lion (Panthera leo), elephant and leopard (Panthera pardus). Some of South Sudan’s ungulate migrations also, at least partially, occur here. This includes the white-eared kob (Kobus kob leucotis) and the tiang (Damaliscus lunatus tiang) migrations which cover part of the grasslands and floodplains habitats. Protected Areas (PAs) in this habitat type include Boma National Park, Badingilo National Park and Kidepo Game Reserve.

3.4.1.3. Grassland Savannah

The grassland savannah habitat is a contiguous area covering northern, eastern and southeastern parts of South Sudan’s floodplains habitat. This area is characterized by open short grasslands with scattered trees and shrubs. Dominant woody vegetation here includes species of Acacia, Balanites and Combretum. Dominant perennial grasses include Hyperrhenia, Andropogon, Panicum and several other species. Various species of mammals inhabiting this region include some globally threatened ones such as the cheetah (Acynonix jubatus), wild dog (Lycaon pictus), lion (Panthera leo), elephant and leopard (Panthera pardus). Some of South Sudan’s ungulate migrations also, at least partially, occur here. This includes the white-eared kob (Kobus kob leucotis) and the tiang (Damaliscus lunatus tiang) migrations which cover part of the grasslands and floodplains habitats. Protected Areas (PAs) in this habitat type include Boma National Park, Badingilo National Park and Kidepo Game Reserve.

3.4.1.4. Floodplain

The floodplain ecological region covering an estimated area of 112,700 Km²in central South Sudan is made up of seasonally flooded plains which extend around the Sudd swamps and on both sides of the White Nile. Among the most abundant species of large mammals found here are the tiang, Nile lechwe and Mongalla gazelle (Gazella rufifrons albonotata). These antelope species use the relatively undisturbed habitat of the floodplains, the grasslands and the Sudd swamps. Areas designated for protection within the floodplain ecological region include Shambe National Park and Mushra Game Reserve.

3.4.1.5. Sudd Swamps and other Wetlands

The Sudd is the largest wetlands in the world with an estimated area of approximately

57,000 Km², and present the largest fresh water ecosystems in the world. It was designated as a RAMSAR Site in 2006 and therefore, falls under internationally recognized framework that mandates its conservation and wise use.

There are four protected Areas located in the Sudd region, Shambe National Park, Zeraf, Meshra and Fanyikang game reserves, all of which are home to globally endangered or threatened wildlife and birds’ species such as the African elephants, endemic Nile Lechwe, White-eared kob, Buffalos and Tiang. Birds such as Shoebill and some migratory birds’ species such as White Stork, the Great Pelican, Black Crowned Crane and Black Tern.

The central core of the Sudd swamps is formed by Cyperus papyrus. This is bordered by Typha dominguensis, the dominant vegetation which covers about three quarters of the total swamp. The Sudd swamps have been shown to support a wealth of small and juvenile fish (Hickley and Bailey, 1986) with rich and diverse macro-invertebrate fauna.

However, with the infestation of invasive alien plant species, this wealth and diversity could be affected. Water hyacinth (Eichornia crassipes) now forms an almost ubiquitous floating fringe to river channels and lakes in the Sudd swamps. Major mammalian species inhabiting the region include threatened species like hippopotamus, near-threatened species like sitatunga (Tragelaphus spekei) and mostly endemic species like the Nile lechwe. It is frequented by elephants, buffalos and several other species of mammals. The region is rich with resident and migratory birdlife, many of which feed on submerged vegetation in shallow waters, invertebrates and on fish or their fry (Hickley and Bailey, 1986). Areas designated for protection in this habitat type are: Fanyikang and Zeraf Game Reserves, the newly Gazetted Ramsar Site, Lake No and Lake Ambadi conservation areas. However, the future of the Sudd wetland as well as local livelihoods would be negatively affected should the Government of South Sudan renew efforts to construct the Jonglei Canal.

3.4.1.6. Montane Forest

South Sudan’s montane forests occur in the Imotong mountains of Eastern Equatoria. Other areas where montane forests are found in South Sudan include the Didinga and Dongotono mountains (Simon et al, 1990). This ecological region is about 960 Km².

Rainfall increases with altitude reaching about 2,500 mm per annum at 2,600 meters above sea level. The montane vegetation is dominated by species of Vernonia, Hagenia, Albizia, Podocarpus and Erica forming zones from the grasslands (Afro-Montane), to the Afro-Alpine dominated by Erica shrub thicket (Sommerlatte and Sommerlatte, 1990). Common large mammals include forest ungulates such as bushpig (Potamochoerus larvatus), bushbuck, Harvey’s duiker (Cephalophus harveyi), blue duiker (Cephalophus monticola), buffalo, primates like black and white colobus (Colobus guereza) and others also occur.

The Imotong Mountains have very rich birdlife including a number of species not found elsewhere in South Sudan (Nikolaus, 1989, Grossmann et al., 2009) some of which are endemic to this habitat type. It is known that there is a large diversity of plant life, several of which are endemic to the region. More than 50% of recorded plant species of South Sudan occur in this region (Caldecott and Miles, 2005). Because of its bio-geographical isolation from similar African montane forests, the Imotong Mountains present an opportunity for plant and animal endemism. The only PA in this habitat type is the Imotong Forest Reserve.

3.4.1.7.Semi-arid Region

The Semi-arid region occupies the extreme south-eastern parts of Eastern Equatoria in and around the Elemi Triangle and around Renk in the north where the average annual rainfall ranges from 300 mm to 500 mm and the soils are generally shallow and infertile. The vegetation of this area is characterized by patches of open short grasslands and Acacia bushland (Nikolaus, 1989). Depending on the annual rainfall, which is unpredictable, the groundcover is generally poor. The area, being an extension of the north-eastern Kenyan semi-arid zone, shares the same bio-geographical affinities in reference to its fauna and flora. Larger mammals of the area include Beisa oryx (Oryx beisa), Grant’s gazelle (Gazella granti), Dik dik (Madoqua guentheri), Lesser kudu (Tragelaphus imberbis), Ostrich and seasonal elephant visitation (Grossmann et al., 2008). The Loelle area has been proposed for the creation of a new protected area to conserve these unique species.

Springs:

This is an all-natural body of water that is warmed geothermally. Hot springs contains important minerals.
South Sudan has several Hot springs namely, Moyo Sukun and Liyu, others are found at Latuke, Kajo Keji and Labonok etc.

Annual Migration of White-Eared Kobs and Tiang:

There is mass movement of White-eared Kobs and Tiang antelopes which dominates the world’s largest great Wildlife migration, where animals move from floodplains of the Sudd and Badingilo National Park and into the Boma National Park with an estimate of 1.2 million Migration.

The Nile:

The River Nile enters the Republic of South Sudan from Nimule at an angle of 90⁰ on its course down the stream through Nimule National Park, joined by the multiple attributes along the flow. It is suitable for rafting exercise up to Juba. From Juba to Renk, the Nile is good for navigation and cruising by boat and steamer along the Nile. While travelling there are a number of human activities, flora and fauna which can be observed. The Nile is considered the longest river in the world. The mighty River Nile is very important to every Country that it passes. As a tourism destination, the Nile offers investment opportunities for activities that include providing spectacular setting of recreation facilities, means of river transport, sport fishing, showing a sense of heritage and adventure and links with the environment and natural world.

Falls

Fulla Falls is located about 4 miles from Nimule town, East Equatoria State, Republic of South Sudan. A large island divides the river, the eastern channel of which carries most of the water.

At the islands in the southern end, the river enters the 2 miles long stretch of rapids with heavy falls. The water then rushes through a narrow gorge more than 90 meters long, falling into a deep cavity less than 12 meters across and passes over rapids that extend far to the northern side. Other similar phenomenon in the country is the Kinyeti Rapids from the source of Kenyiti River at Gilo.

Mountains and Hills

South Sudan has many Mountains and Hills, which offer fresh air, unique landscape, scenic beauty, local culture, history and heritage. Visitors to these scenic features participate in snow-based or nature related activities and sports, filming, hiking, nature work and photography, for example Imatong Mountains, Mt. Kinyeti, Ido Hills, Jebel Lado, Kimu Hills, Ikotos Hills, Gordon Hills, Lapon Hills, Jebel Kujur, Mangayat Hills, Jebel Meneamgba, Jebel Kur, Jebel Talgona, Jebel Boma, Jebel Tembari, and Maringido, etc.

Forest:

South Sudan is well endowed with diverse natural forests and woodlands with an estimated total area of 191,667 Km², making up about 30% of the total size of the country.

These forests offer recreational activities such as nature walk, wildlife viewing, filming, photography, etc.

Caves:

Cave or cavern is a natural void in the ground specifically a space large enough for human to enter. Caves are very essential for Tourism, which if properly harnessed, they can improve the social and economic wellbeing of the host community and conservation of the biodiversity and environment.

Historical Sites in South Sudan

The historical events that have occurred in South Sudan left a lot of sites some of which are connected with the colonial rule, while others are linked to the struggle of the people of South Sudan beginning from 1880s to 2005.

These historical sites include British garrisons, the execution and burial sites, old missionary centers, explores’ trials, slave trade markets, monuments, among sites of SPLA General Commands and Operations (Dr. John Garang De Mabior).

The Famous Tamarind Tree:

Sir, Samuel Baker Stop over point at Obbo-Lobeca in Nimule while exploring the source of the Nile in 1869.

King George’s House:

The house was at Nagishot, which the British King used during the Second World War.

Diem Zubair:

Was the largest Slave Trade Market Centre in Western Bahr el Ghazal State.

Fashoda Incident:

The Fashoda Incident of 1898 was the climax of French and British imperial struggles for territory in East Africa.

Torit Mutiny:

The town where the first struggle of the people of South Sudan started in 1955, led by a group of Southern Sudanese military officers in 1955.

Commando Operational HQs (SPLA):

Was the former Command Post of Commander-in-Chief of SPLA - late Dr. John Garang De-Mabior during Operation Jungle Storm around Aswa River in mid 1990s.

Himodonge:

The Mass Grave burial site of 1955 of Torit rebellion martyrs, about 6 Kms south east of Torit Town.

The Shrine of Late Rev. (Father) Saturolino Ohure:

The great Catholic Priest who deserve not only the title but a martyr, a hero and revolutionary. He played a very great role in supporting the struggle of the people of Southern Sudan. He was killed in Uganda.

Gbudue Tomb:

The Tomb of the Zande King who resisted the colonial rule. He was buried in Yambio with a number of beautiful ladies.

3.2.10.The Mausoleum of Late Dr. John Garang:

This is the burial ground for Late Dr. John Garang the liberator of South Sudan.

3.2.11.Mausoleum of Ali Abdelatif and Abdel Fadil Almaz in Wau:

Leaders of Liwa Abiad Revolution in 1924, buried in Wau Town.

3.2.12.Gondokoro:

The first Missionaries arrived in 1918 to establish the Catholic Church then later moved to Rajaf where All Saints Cathedral was built.

3.2.13.Ariith Makuei Site:

In Aweil.

3.2.14.Ngundeng Shrine:

The Nuer Spiritual Leader.

Cultural Tourism Attractions

Cultural tourism is a type of tourism activity in which the visitor’s essential motivation is to learn, discover, experience and consume the tangible and intangible cultural attractions/products in a tourism destination. These attractions/products relate to a set of distinctive material, intellectual, spiritual and emotional features of a society that encompasses arts and architecture, historical and cultural heritage, culinary heritage, literature, music, creative industries and the living cultures with their lifestyles, value systems, beliefs and traditions

According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization, cultural tourism is

“Movements of persons for essentially cultural motivation such as study tours, performing arts and cultural tours, travel to festivals and other cultural events, visits to sites and monuments, travel to study nature, folklore or art, and pilgrimages.”

We expand this definition to encompass the participation of visitors in cultural activities whether those activities are the primary purpose of their travel or not.

Destinations

One type of cultural tourism destination is living cultural areas. Visiting any culture other than one's own such as traveling to a foreign country. Other destinations include historical sites, modern urban districts, "ethnic pockets" of town, fairs/festivals, theme parks, and natural ecosystems. It has been shown that cultural attractions and events are particularly strong magnets for tourism. The term cultural tourism is used for journeys that include visits to cultural resources, regardless of whether it is tangible or intangible cultural resources, and regardless of the primary motivation. In order to understand properly the concept of cultural tourism, its necessary to know the definitions of a number terms such as culture, tourism, cultural economy, cultural and tourism potentials, cultural and tourist offer, and others.

Tribes and activities

The term tribe is used in many different contexts to refer to a category of human social group. The predominant usage of the term is in the discipline of anthropology. The definition is contested, in part due to conflicting theoretical understandings of social and kinship structures, and also reflecting the problematic application of this concept to extremely diverse human societies. The concept is often contrasted by anthropologists with other social and kinship groups, being hierarchically larger than a lineage or clan, but smaller than a chiefdom, nation or state. These terms are equally disputed. In some cases, tribes have legal recognition and some degree of political autonomy from national or federal government, but this legalistic usage of the term may conflict with anthropological definitions.

The ethnicity of South Sudan is richly diverse. There are more than 70 tribes and ethnic groups. Many of these ethnic groups share common culture, very closely-linked cultural traits with intelligible languages which form distinct larger family units. The groups are briefly explained.

Cultural Items

The culture of South Sudan encompasses the religions, languages, ethnic groups, foods, and other traditions of people of the modern state of South Sudan, as well as of the inhabitants of the historical regions of Southern Sudan.

Languages

Each tribe speaks their own mother tongue language. The official language of South Sudan is English. While several people use dialect forms of Arabic, like Juba Arabic and others.

Religion Conventional/ Traditional

The people of South Sudan are predominantly Christians, followed by Muslims and African Traditional Believes.

Ethnic Groups

Includes the Nilotics, Nilo-Hamid’s, Sudanic, and the Bantus.

Society

Most South Sudanese kept up the core of their different Cultures, even while in exile or diaspora. Traditional culture is highly upheld and a great focus is given to knowing one's ethnic origins and language.

Indigenous Music

South Sudan has a rich tradition of folk music that reflects its diverse indigenous cultures.

Cattle Camps

In many parts of the country, cattle are a significant part of politics and the economy. People rely on their milk or their sale for food, school fees and medicine. Leaders build their authority through cattle ownership and gifts of cattle. The person with the highest number of cattle in the community has the privilege of being appointed as a community leader. Whenever the community needs an asset for a social or economic transaction, like a cow or bull, the appointed leader will offer his cow or bull voluntarily on behalf of his people (it is always a man). Most importantly, for the people South Sudan, a cow is paid as a dowry. Some societies are so conservative that no cows mean no wife.

The majority of these cattle are cared for in camps. In South Sudan these camps often number a few thousand herds and are inhabited by a broad demographic formation from children to grandparents. The cattle are owned by an even broader swathe of society, including the most senior politicians in Juba. For those living in the camp, they can act as a welfare system providing abundant milk for weaning children, or for older children during months of severe starvation.

3.3.10.SOUTH SUDAN STATES, TRIBES AND COUNTIES.

3.3.10.1.Western Equatoria State’ Tribes

Zande
Avukaya
Balanda
Moro (Kodo, Wira, Miza, Endri)
Mundu
Wadi
Baka

3.3.10.2.Western Equatoria State’s Counties (Yambio is a capital)
Ezo County.
Ibba County
Maridi County
Mundri East County
Mundri West County
Mvolo County
Nagero County
Nzara County
Tambura County
Yambio County

Central Equatoria State’s Tribes

Adio (Makaraka)
Bari
Mundari
Pojulu
Nyangwara
Kakwa
Lolubo
Keliko
Avukaya
Kuku
Lugbara
Lokoya

Central Equatoria State’s Counties (Juba is a capital)
Juba County
Kajo-Keji County
Lainya County
Morobo County
Terekeka County
Yei County
Eastern Equatoria State’s Tribes

Acholi
Lotuka (Otuho)
Dongotono
Horiok
Tenet
Lopit
Toposa
Lango (Lokwa)
Tid
Logir
Nyangatom
Imotong
Jiye
Lokoya
Didinga
Pari (Lokoro)
Larim (Boya)
Madi
Ketebo
Larwama

Eastern Equatoria State’s Counties (Torit is a capital)
Budi County
Ikotos County
Kapoeta East County
Kapoeta North County
Kapoeta South County
Lafon County
Magwi County
Torit County

Jonglei State’ Tribes

Dinka (Jieng)
Nuer (Naath)
Anyuak (Anyuaa)
Murle
Suri (Kachipo)

Jonglei State’s Counties (Bor is a capital)

Akobo County
Ayod County
Bor County
Twic East County
Duk County
Fangak County (POM)
Pigi County
Nyirol County
Pibor County
Pochalla County
Uror County

Upper Nile State’s Tribes

Dinka (Jieng)
Shilluk (Collo)
Nuer (Naath)
Maban
Uduk

Upper Nile State’s Counties (Malakal is a capital)
Akoka County
Baliet County
Fashoda County
Longechuk County
Maban County
Malakal County
Manyo County
Maiwut County
Melut County
Nasir County
Panyikang County
Renk County
Ulang County
Unity State’s Tribes

Nuer (Naath)
Dinka (Jieng)

Unity State’s Counties (Bentiu is a Capital)
Abiemnom County
Guit County
Koch County
Leer County
Mayiendit County
Mayom County
Panrieng County
Panyijar County
Rubkona County

Northern Bahr Al Ghazal’s Tribes (AWEIL)

Dinka (Jieng)
Luo (Jur-Chol)

Northern Bahr Al Ghazal State’s Counties (Aweil is a Capital)
Aweil Centre County
Aweil East County
Aweil North County
Aweil South County
Aweil West County
Warrap State’s Tribes

Dinka (Jieng)
Bongo
Jur-Manangar
Jur (Beli and Modo)

Warrap State’s Counties (Kwajok is a Capital)
Gogrial East County
Gogrial West County
Tonj East County
Tonj North County
Tonj South County
Twic County

Western Bahr El Ghazal State’s Tribes

Sere
Bongo
Ndogo
Feroge
Gollo
Binga
Bai
Yulu
Balanda-Viri
Aja
Balanda-Boor
Shatt
Kreish (Pbaya/Naka/Ndogo)
Banda
Woro
Ngulngule
Jieng
Mangayat
Luo/Jur-Chol
Indri
Kara
Zande

Western bahr Al Ghazal State’s Counties’ (Wau is a Capital)
Jur River County
Raga County
Wau County
Lakes State’s Tribes

Dinka (Jieng)
Jur Bail
Atuot

Lakes State’s Counties (Rumbek is a Capital)
Awerial County
Cueibet County
Rumbek Center County
Rumbek East County
Rumbek North County
Wulu County
Yirol East County
Yirol West County

Yirol East is the main County in Lakes State holding a new planned City Ramciel.

Malek Payam is the only Payam where the Central Government has proposed establishment of its capital city. Ramciel is estimated to be located 34 Km south east of Malek.

ADMINISTRATIVE AREAS:

Abiyie Administrative Area’s Tribes

Jieng

Abiyie Administrative Area’s Counties (Abiyie is a Capital)

Rum Amer
Abiyie
Alel
Majak

Pibor Administrative Area’s Tribes

Murle
Kachipo
Anyuak

Pibor Administrative Area’s Counties (Pibor is a Capital)

Pibor
Gumruk
Lokongule
Fertate
Boma
Pochalla
Wataballa

Ruweng Administrative Area’s Tribes

Dinka (Jieng)

Ruweng Administrative Area’s Counties (Ruweng is A Capital)
Lake Neo
Jamgjang
WunKuo
Jao
Aling
Tuoc
Awarpiny
Abiemnom

COMMUNITIES FOUND IN TWO (2) OR MORE STATES

Avukaya:

Are found in two states of:

Central Equatoria, and
Western Equatoria

Balanda:

Are found in two states of:

Western Equatoria, and
Western Bahr El Ghazal

Dinka:

Are found in seven states and two administrative areas of:

Northern Bahr el Ghazal (Aweil)
Western Bahr el Ghazal (Wau)
Lakes State
Warrap State
Upper Nile State (Malakal)
Jonglei State (Bor)
Unity State
Ruweng Administrative Area
Abiyie Administrative Area

Zande:

Are found in two states of:

Western Equatoria State, and
Western Bahr El Ghazal State

Bongo:

Are found in two states of:

Warrap State, and
Western Bahr El Ghazal State

Nuer:

Are found in three (3) states of:

Unity,
Upper Nile,
Jonglei

South Sudan Wildlife and the Protected Areas (PAs)

Southern Sudan was one of the best kept wilderness zones of Northern Africa until 1983’s civil war. The protected areas in present day South Sudan as a country are home to many endangered Wildlife Species. The population of Wildlife in these areas is the second largest in the world with important migratory routes crossing through the Parks.

There are six (6) National Parks namely; Badingilo, Boma, Lantoto, Nimule, Shambe and Southern National Parks, and twelve (12) Game Reserves,

South Sudan’s National Parks:

3.4.1.1.Nimule National Park:

The Park was established as a Game Reserve in 1935 and proclaimed as a National Park in 1954.The Park is about 256 Km² and the buffer zone is about 154 Km²_.

Location:

The park is located at the extreme southern border with Uganda at the entrance of the River Nile to South Sudan.

Fauna:

The main wildlife are elephants, Uganda Kob, crocodiles, hippos, baboons, vervet monkeys, bushbucks and variety of bird species.

Habitat:

The park lies within Savannah Woodland.

Investment Opportunities in Nimule NP:

Establishment of the park infrastructure (patrol and tourist roads) – to enable accessibility and management of the park.
Construction of four (4) outposts in the park.
Construction of two (2) Eco-lodges and two (2) Camping Sites (at Fulla Falls & Gordon

Hills).

Construction of three (3) Observation Towers at Fulla 1, 2 & 3
Purchase of Ferry for crossing to Western part of the park.
Use of canoes/boats for Game Viewing & Rafting along R. Nile

3.4.6.2. Badingilo National Park

Badingilo National Park lies between Central and Eastern Equatoria States and encompasses the old Mongalla and Badingeru Game Reserves and a large area extending east to the Veveno River Drainage.

Badingilo covers an area of 8,935 Km². The proposed extension, extends into Eastern Equatoria and Jonglei States and covers additional 7,724 Km².

Location:

The park lies to the east of Juba-Bor Road and Nile River, which provides an important source of water for wildlife, particularly during the dry season.

Habitat:

It’s located in the grassland savannah habitat.

Fauna:

It is a home to the migration of White-eared kob and Tiang in the rainy season. Other species found in the park include: Mongalla Gazelle, Giraffe, elephants, elands, spotted and stripped hyena, ostrich, etc.

It is one of the internationally recognized important birds’ areas.

Investment Opportunities in Badingilo NP:

Rehabilitation and construction of the park infrastructure (patrol and tourist roads – to enable accessibility and management of the park.
Construction of four (4) Outposts in the park and two (2) Airstrips.
Construction of four (4) Eco-lodges, three (3) Camping Sites and four (4) observation towers.
Use of Balloons for viewing the migration of Tiang, White-eared kobs , Mongalla Gazelle, Reedbucks and other wildlife species.

3.4.4.3. Boma National Park

Boma National Park (BNP) covers an area of about 22,000 Km². The park boundaries were proposed in 1977 and it was officially opened in 1979.

Fauna:

The park is home to migration of White-eared Kob that stays in the park during dry season (November-April). Other animals found in the park are: elephant, zebra, buffalo, lion, cheetah, wild dog, hyena, hartebeest, Beisa oryx, grants gazelle, roan antelope, ostrich and variety of bird species.

Location:

The park covers a large portion of Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA) extending up to Boma plateau and Ethiopian border in the east.

Habitat:

The park lies within Grassland Savannah habitat.

Investment Opportunities in Boma NP:

Rehabilitation and construction of the park infrastructure (patrol and tourist roads –to enable accessibility and management of the park).
Construction of eight (8) outposts in the park.
Construction of Six (6) Eco-lodges, four (4) Camping Sites and five (5) Observation towers.
Use of Balloons for viewing the spectacular migration of White-eared kobs, elephants and other wildlife species.

Southern National Park

Southern National Park (SNP) was established in 1939. It covers around 23,000 km². Location:

The park is located in Western Equatoria, Western Bahr El Ghazal, Lakes and Warrap States.

The Park is drained by three rivers: the Sue River to the west, a well-defined channel that joined the Nile, which forms the western boundary of the park; the Giel River to the east; and the Ibba River (Tonj River) in the Centre of the park.

The Gel and Ibba Rivers, after flowing through the park, formed a flood plain which made the habitat swampy.

Fauna:

The park is home to the big five - Elephants (2 species of forest and savanna elephants), Rhinos, Buffalo, Lion and Leopard.

Other major wildlife species found in the park include: the Bongo (one of the rare species in the country), Giant eland, hartebeest, chimpanzee, baboons, patas monkey, vervet monkey, roan antelope, lesser kudu, Uganda kob, giraffe, warthog, giant forest hog, bush pig, a variety of bird species, etc.

Habitat:

The park lies within Savannah Woodland habitat.

Investment Opportunities in Southern NP:

Rehabilitation and construction of the park infrastructure (patrol and tourist roads –to enable accessibility and management of the park).
Construction of eight (8) outposts in the park.
Construction of six (6) Eco-lodges, six (6) Camping Sites and six (6) observation points.
Shambe National Park

The park was Gazetted in 1986. It covers an area of 620 km².

Location:

The borders of the park lie within the Lakes and Unity States.

The coordinates of the park lie within the following borders:

North - Latitude 7⁰ 10’ N; East – Bahr El Jebel; West- Latitude 30⁰ 43’ South - Latitude 7⁰ N.

Fauna:

The park is a home to elephants, Nile Lechwe, rhinos, Uganda kob, waterbuck, buffalos, etc.

Habitat:

The park is located in the Flood Plains ecological zone within the Lakes State.

Investment Opportunities:

Rehabilitation and construction of the park infrastructure (patrol and tourist roads –to enable accessibility and management of the park).
Construction of four (4) outposts in the park.
Construction of three (3) Eco-lodges and two (2) Camping Sites
Use of Balloons for game viewing.

Lantoto National Park

The park was Gazetted in 1986 covering an area of 760 Km².

Location:

It lies between latitude 4⁰ 30’ N and longitude 29⁰ 54’E on the western side of Yei-Maridi Road and bordering Garamba National Park of Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Fauna:

Important wildlife species include elephant, buffalo, giraffe, chimpanzee, bushbuck and duiker.

Habitat:

The vegetation of the Park is predominantly Savannah Woodland, forest and open glades.

Investment Opportunities in Lantoto NP:

Rehabilitation and construction of the park infrastructure (patrol and tourist roads –to enable accessibility and management of the park).
Construction of four (4) outposts in the park.
Construction of three (3) Eco-lodges and two (2) Camping Sites.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE TOURISM:

Wildlife Conservation
Tour and Travel Aspects
Hospitality, Hotels, Catering and Recreation
River Rafting
Hiking
Wildlife Safaris
Balloon Safaris, etc.

Culture

Ethnic groups in South Sudan

Cultural Practices in South Sudan