On 29 June, the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) announced the launch of “ZBC’s Wild Africa Adventures” in Zimbabwe.
This first-of-its-kind 13-episode TV series shares inspiring stories from the frontlines of conservation around the continent to educate and entertain.
Presenters Rumbie Takawira, Dr Mark Ofua and Zandile Ndhlovu explore on-the-ground initiatives and the dedicated conservationists behind them. Along the way prominent African wildlife ambassadors, including Black Panther stars Danai Gurira and Oscar-winner Lupita Nyong’o, actor Djimon Hounsou, musician Focalistic, comedian Josh2Funny and gospel singer Amani encounter Africa’s most charismatic animals. We also meet some of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife, from forest elephants in Nigeria and slender-snouted crocodiles in Ghana to Temminck’s ground pangolins in Namibia and black rhinos in South Africa.
Created specifically for African audiences, it will air across the continent with various broadcasters and help raise awareness of the urgent need to protect the continent’s wildlife and wild spaces. Over the past 50 years, Africa’s monitored wildlife populations have declined by 76%, and every year the continent loses an estimated 3.9 million hectares of forest.
The first episode features a sea turtle rescue in Nigeria, Oscar-winner Lupita Nyong’o learning about elephants in Kenya and efforts to protect the elusive pangolins of Namibia.
Other featured stories from Zimbabwe in the series include:
- Exploring Zimbabwe’s national parks with award-winning actress Danai Gurira.
- Meeting Zimbabwe’s pioneering all-female anti-poaching unit from Akashinga.
- Discovering how chilli farming helps people and elephants coexist.
- Introducing Painted Dog Conservation, and their initiatives to protect the endangered African painted dog.
- Learning how communities reduce human-wildlife conflict from the Tikobane Trust.
“ZBC’s Wild Africa Adventures” is produced from Cape Town, South Africa by Wild Africa with support from the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) and the Tammy Estrada Strome Foundation.
Series Producer and Wild Africa CEO, Peter Knights OBE stated, “Africa has preserved wildlife, especially large mammals, like nowhere else on earth. As it powers the growing tourism industry it is a source of immense pride. ‘ZBC’s Wild Africa Adventures’ showcases Africans with a passion to protect their incredible wildlife, their challenges and their successes and we hope it entertains as it educates and inspires.”
“The “ZBC’s Wild Africa Adventures’ series offers a remarkable look into the majesty of Africa’s breathtaking wildlife from those on the frontlines of conservation. The vivid imagery and inspiring stories captured through the lens of the creators, not only fuel a sense of wonder, but offer a renewed drive to commit to the shared goal of conservation and generational stewardship of the natural environment. It is an honor for IFAW to share in this noble endeavor,” said Azzedine Downes, President and CEO of IFAW.
Farai Chapoterera, Wild Africa Country Manager for Zimbabwe said, “Conservation is often viewed through the lens of science, law enforcement and protected area management. While these are all important, conservation is ultimately about the people. This series captures the compelling stories of Zimbabweans in conservation. The choices they make, the values they uphold and the legacy they leave for future generations.”
Speaking at the launch, ZBC Director of Content and Channels, Charles Munganasa, said the initiative aligns with ZBC’s current content direction: “Zimbabwe has a rich wildlife ecosystem and we have committed to ensuring at least a quarter of our content offering tells the vast stories in this state as we continue to entertain and educate the people of Zimbabwe.”
Tune in for the premiere of “ZBC’s Wild Africa Adventures” on ZBC this July straight after the World Cup.
Follow Wild Africa on social media at @wildafricaorg and visit wildafrica.org to discover more inspiring wildlife stories and learn how you can help protect Africa’s natural heritage.
