By Chol Makol
Bor Town, April 17, 2025 — The Bor Community Youth Association (BCYA) has formally petitioned the Governor of Jonglei State, Dr. Riek Gai Kok, calling for the relocation of wildlife enforcement units from Bor Town to the Ajah-Ger area and a shift in their operational strategies.
The petition, dated April 2, 2025, raises concerns over rising tensions between local youth and wildlife authorities. According to BCYA, frequent pursuits and arrests of suspected hunters within the town have led to growing friction and community unrest.
Ngong Beer Ngong Ajak, Chairperson of BCYA, stated that the current approach by wildlife officers is not only ineffective but also disruptive to the lives of Bor Town residents.
“Instead of chasing hunters in town, we request that Wildlife forces focus on catching illegal hunters within the forests,” said Ngong. “This approach is more effective and will prevent unnecessary disruptions within the town.”
The BCYA emphasized that areas like Ajah-Ger — known for higher rates of illegal hunting — would be more suitable bases for wildlife enforcement operations.
In addition to operational concerns, Ngong urged the government to take into account the difficult socioeconomic conditions faced by many residents. He called for wildlife protection efforts that do not come at the cost of people’s livelihoods.
“We appeal for the implementation of our request to prevent further tensions and promote peace and stability in Bor County,” Ngong added.
In response, Major General David Deng Adol, Director of Wildlife Services in Jonglei State, acknowledged the concerns and confirmed that steps are being taken to move wildlife forces to more remote areas, including Ajah-Ger.
“We are working on relocating the forces from the town to far areas like Ajah-Ger. The goal is to protect the road from Bor Town to Pibor and safeguard animal migration corridors,” said Adol.
However, Adol did not specify a timeline for the relocation, stating that discussions are ongoing within the communities to determine a suitable settlement location for the units.
The petition reflects broader concerns about the balance between conservation efforts and community well-being — a delicate issue in a region where wildlife protection often intersects with local survival strategies.