A landmark partnership between African Parks, the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA), and the Gambella Peoples’ National Regional State has been established, marking a transformative step for conservation and community development in Ethiopia.
The ten-year renewable agreement, signed on 11 December in Addis Ababa, aims to restore Gambella National Park and create opportunities for local communities and wildlife.
A shared commitment to conservation
The signing event was attended by notable figures, including H.E. Selam Kasahun, Minister of Tourism; H.E. Ato Silesh Girma, State Minister for Tourism; Kumara Wakjira, Director General of EWCA; and H.E. Ms. Alemitu Umod, President of Gambella State. Located within the Greater Boma-Gambella Landscape, the park holds significant ecological value. This agreement enhances transboundary conservation efforts already underway in neighbouring Boma and Badingilo national parks.
Investing in people and nature
The partnership will bring significant investment to the Gambella region, creating jobs, fostering regional tourism, and supporting local economies through procurement. During the first twelve months, African Parks will focus on gathering critical data to guide conservation and community-focused efforts. This includes baseline assessments, human resource planning, environmental and social evaluations, and the establishment of governance structures. Stakeholder mapping and extensive community engagement will ensure the strategy aligns with local needs and priorities.
Expanding African Parks’ conservation footprint
Gambella National Park becomes the 23rd protected area managed by African Parks, adding 450,000 hectares to its portfolio of over 20 million hectares across the continent. This milestone supports African Parks’ mission to manage thirty protected areas by 2030, contributing to the global goal of conserving thirty per cent of the planet by the same year.
