Group photo taken during the graduation of 50 game rangers on 25^th August 2026/Credit: Ezekiel Idris.

By Awuou Michael

The Ministry of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism, in collaboration with African Park, has graduated 50 game rangers after two months of intensive training to strengthen wildlife protection and law enforcement in Badingilo National Park.

The graduation ceremony held on Tuesday brought together wildlife officials and the newly trained rangers, who were urged to protect wildlife and communities, combat bushmeat trade and wildlife trafficking, and carry out their duties with discipline, professionalism and respect for human rights.

Speaking during the ceremony, Badingilo National Park Manager John Vorgal said the rangers underwent training in tactical and operational skills, weapon handling, law enforcement, discipline and operational readiness.

“This graduation marks not only the completion of your training, but also the beginning of your professional duty,” Vorgal said, urging the rangers to serve with discipline, respect and integrity.

Vorgal said Badingilo National Park is at the heart of the Great Nile migration landscape, supporting millions of antelopes and holding significant conservation value for South Sudan and the world.

He identified commercial bushmeat trade and wildlife trafficking as major threats facing the park, saying the new rangers have a key responsibility to help combat the illegal activities.

“Your responsibility is now to help protect this important ecosystem and combat threats such as commercial bushmeat trade and wildlife trafficking,” Vorgal said.

Speaking on behalf of the graduands, newly graduated ranger Pieng Mathiang Manyiel said he joined the Wildlife Division to protect animals, people and the environment.

“I joined the Wildlife Division to defend animals while also protecting human beings and our community,” Manyiel said.

Meanwhile, Director General of the Wildlife Service, General Khamis Adiang, urged the new rangers to protect wildlife while safeguarding communities living around the park.

“You must protect our wildlife and, at the same time, protect the communities living around the park,” General Adiang said.

He also urged the rangers to work professionally, follow orders from their commanders and maintain discipline while carrying out their duties.

“Discipline is very important in your work, and I urge you to work professionally and follow the orders of your commanders,” he said.

General Adiang further called for stronger cooperation among the organized forces to collectively protect South Sudan’s wildlife and national parks.

The 50 graduates have now joined the Badingilo ranger force and are expected to begin duties protecting wildlife, natural resources and supporting conservation efforts in the park.

The Boma-Bandingilo National Park, is a national park located in South Sudan’s Equatoria region. The park covered the erstwhile states of Central Equatoria and Eastern Equatoria.