Torit, South Sudan – Authorities in Eastern Equatoria State are urging citizens to rear domestic animals to reduce wildlife hunting.
The Director General of the State Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Anna Itwari, encouraged communities to raise chickens and other animals at home to conserve wildlife, particularly in Imatong and Ikotos.
“By rearing chickens and other livestock, we can enjoy tender meat without killing our wild animals,” she said. She highlighted the importance of preserving wildlife, such as elephants, which contribute to the ecosystem by planting coconut trees as they roam.
The State Minister of Agriculture, Ochola Oringa, echoed these sentiments, calling for the immediate deployment of wildlife forces to protect the Imatong range.
“We need to reinforce efforts to conserve our environment, particularly in the Imatong ecosystem,” he stated, urging authorities to deploy resources for wildlife protection.
The remarks were made during the launch of a global environmental project on Wednesday in Torit.