Samuel Justin Luate, Acting Director of Wetlands at the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, speaks on Eye Radio’s Dawn show – Photo credit: Darlington Moses/Eye Radio

The Acting Director of Wetlands at the Ministry of Environment and Forestry has called for collective action to protect wildlife and endangered species, describing them as vital national heritage and a key resource for future generations.

Samuel Justin Luate said protecting wildlife is not a one-man effort, but a responsibility that requires the involvement of all stakeholders.

“As long as all of us are in this environment, we are sharing the same environment, it means each and every one of us has got a stake in that environment. Each and every one of us has got a role to play to make sure that that environment or that component of the environment is protected,” he said.

He noted that wildlife and other species should not be misused, as they have the potential to generate significant income through tourism.

“Solving environmental problems or protecting the environment is not a one-man show. This is our shared responsibility. So, if the government, the Ministry of Environment, the government sets the policies, the regulations and the guidelines,” he added.

According to Luate, South Sudan is rich in natural resources and environmental beauty, but these must be safeguarded for the future.