ADDIS ABABA,  Dec 14 (AGCNewsNet) – The Ministry of Tourism (MoT) has announced a significant partnership aimed at fostering sustainable development and conservation efforts in Ethiopia's largest national park, Gambella National Park. 

Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa presided over the signing ceremony on Wednesday, marking a collaborative management agreement between the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA), Gambella National Park, and African Parks. The initiative seeks to strengthen wildlife conservation, promote ecological preservation, and benefit local communities. 

"The corridor development will soon be implemented to transform Gambella, generate jobs, and attract more tourists to the area," Selamawit stated. She emphasized the importance of advancing ecosystem development, protecting forests and wildlife, and creating opportunities for future generations. 

EWCA Director General Kumara Wakjira described the agreement as "historic" for enhancing conservation efforts and addressing management gaps. He highlighted the park’s rich biodiversity, which includes over six million animals, some of which migrate across the border into South Sudan. However, he noted that the local community has not sufficiently benefited from this natural wealth. 

The Gambella State Chief Administrator, Alemitu Umod, praised the partnership as a "golden opportunity" for leveraging the park’s untapped natural potential while addressing challenges such as cross-border migration and conflicts. 

African Parks CEO Peter Fearnhead assured the organization’s commitment to supporting conservation and development efforts in Gambella. He emphasized the agreement's role in creating socioeconomic benefits for residents in Ethiopia and neighboring South Sudan while contributing to a holistic ecological management system. 

This collaboration aligns with Ethiopia's broader goals of combating climate change, promoting tourism, and ensuring food security under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.

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