The number and distribution of giraffe in Ethiopia are not well known. However, it is believed that two species of giraffe reside within its borders: the reticulated giraffe (Giraffa reticulata) in the southeast and the Nubian giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis camelopardalis) in the west and southwest.
To gain insights into the distribution and population of giraffe across the country, the Giraffe Conservation Foundation collaborates with the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority and other local partners. Collaboratively, the first-ever National Giraffe Conservation Action Plan 2023-2027 was developed to guide much-needed research and conservation efforts. Determining their distribution and numbers, particularly in the country’s southern region, are a crucial first step.
Nubian giraffe occur in Gambella National Park, located in western Ethiopia on the border with South Sudan. The area’s limited road network makes access challenging. Moreover, transboundary movements with South Sudan compromises the safety of giraffe and other wildlife in the area. With future plans to increase management of the area, hopefully Nubian giraffe conservation efforts can be furthered in this spectacular landscape which is also home to the world’s largest land mammal migration of white-eared kob and tiang.
To gather critical information about giraffe spatial movements and habitat use across these huge landscape, the Giraffe Conservation Foundation in collaboration with African Parks fitted several giraffe with GPS satellite units. Interestingly, initial data revealed that the giraffe range only partially overlaps with the existing (virtual) park boundaries which lack any physical barriers. It is hoped that such findings will guide the expansion of the park’s boundaries to encompass areas frequented by giraffe as the area is not occupied by people.
Gambella National Park has the potential to become one of Africa’s premier national parks with abundant wildlife and support for cross-border wildlife movements with South Sudan. Future efforts in the park should prioritize giraffe conservation and management activities, and we are excited about what the future hold.
