Boma–Badingilo Migratory Landscape Named South Sudan’s First UNESCO World Heritage Site
Boma–Badingilo Migratory Landscape © Marcus Westberg
JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN — On July 26, 2026, the Government of the Republic of South Sudan announced that the Boma-Badingilo Migratory Landscape (BBML) has been officially inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, marking the first time a site within the nation has received this international designation.
The BBML is one of the largest intact and ecologically functional landscapes in Africa, covering approximately 12 million hectares of savannas, floodplains, wetlands, and woodlands. It serves as the heart of the “Great Nile Migration,” supporting the largest terrestrial mammal migration on Earth. A 2024 aerial survey confirmed that approximately six million antelope, including white-eared kob, tiang, Mongalla gazelle, and Bohor reedbuck, move across the ecosystem annually in response to seasonal rainfall.
A Collaborative Milestone
The inscription follows years of work led by the Government of South Sudan, specifically the Ministry of Culture, Museums and National Heritage and the Ministry of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism, in collaboration with the South Sudan Wildlife Service, local communities, the IUCN, UNESCO, and African Parks.
Since 2022, African Parks has partnered with the government to manage the Boma and Badingilo National Parks. This management partnership aims to balance the country’s growth and infrastructure needs with the preservation of natural assets and community livelihoods.
Voices from the Field
Hon. Denay Jock Chagor, Minister of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism, described the inscription as a historic moment for the nation. “It is international recognition of the extraordinary natural heritage that South Sudan holds for the benefit of the world, and of our commitment to protecting it for future generations,” he said.
Hon. Sarah Nyanath Elijah Yong, Minister of Culture, Museums and National Heritage, noted that the achievement is a testament to the collaborative efforts of government institutions, local communities, and international partners. “We are proud that the stories, traditions, and perspectives of the people who live within and around this landscape have been integral to this journey,” she stated.
Representing local communities, Paulino Warnyang emphasized that the recognition validates the long-standing bond between the people and the land. “For generations our communities have lived alongside the wildlife and landscapes of Boma and Badingilo. This recognition honours not only the animals and the land, but also the people whose lives, traditions and cultures have always been connected to them,” Warnyang said.
Addressing Future Challenges
While the UNESCO designation offers a framework to strengthen protection, stakeholders acknowledge the significant challenges facing the region. The landscape is currently under pressure from commercial poaching, extractive interests, and the impacts of a changing climate.
Peter Fearnhead, Chief Executive Officer of African Parks, hailed the status as a “substantive symbol of nation building” for the world’s youngest country. He noted that while World Heritage status does not safeguard the area on its own, it shines an international spotlight on its importance and helps mobilize the support necessary to ensure its survival for future generations.
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