The ministry made the call during a national workshop on ecologically sensitive linear infrastructure held in Juba on Tuesday, bringing together government officials, environmental experts, development partners, conservation groups and representatives from the University of Juba.

Participants discussed ways of expanding infrastructure such as roads, railways, pipelines, power lines and fiber optic networks while protecting wildlife habitats and biodiversity.

Addressing the workshop, Undersecretary in the Ministry of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism, Major General Peter Loro, said South Sudan hosts one of the world’s largest land mammal migrations and called for development projects that do not disrupt wildlife movements.

“The purpose of this workshop is not to choose between development and conservation. Our goal is to achieve both,” Loro said.

He said poorly planned infrastructure projects could lead to habitat fragmentation and increased human-wildlife conflict.

Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Land, Housing and Urban Development, Director for Land George Riti Richard said infrastructure development remains important for improving access to services and strengthening regional integration.

“Infrastructure such as roads, railways, power lines, pipelines and fiber optic networks are essential for national development, regional integration and improving access to services,” he said.

He added that South Sudan’s growing need for connectivity to markets, schools, hospitals and public services must be balanced with environmental sustainability and responsible land management.

Representing the Ministry of Transport, Senior Inspector for Certification Mandela Jackson Peter said the ministry is developing a strategic road transport policy aimed at aligning infrastructure expansion with environmental protection measures.

He said cooperation between the transport ministry and the wildlife ministry would help ensure transport systems are developed with consideration for ecosystems and wildlife conservation.

Officially opening the workshop, Minister of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism Denay Jock Chagor called on South Sudanese to work together in protecting the country’s natural heritage while supporting national development.

Chagor described environmentally sensitive infrastructure planning as an important part of nation-building and encouraged institutions to cooperate beyond regional and tribal divisions.