‘Wild Africa ‘, a new weekly television series celebrating Africa’s wildlife and the people working to protect it, has premiered on Rwanda TV, broadcast by Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA).
This 13-part magazine-style series takes viewers across the continent, showcasing remarkable wildlife conservation initiatives and the dedicated people behind them.
The first episode features Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o exploring elephant conservation in Kenya, alongside a sea turtle rescue in Nigeria and efforts to protect the elusive pangolins of Namibia.
The series also features several conservation stories from Rwanda, including exploring Nyungwe National Park with musician Ruti Joel, discovering how award-winning gospel singer Aline Gahongayire connects with her homeland, and joining one of Rwanda’s few female wildlife rangers on patrol.
Viewers can also visit Rwanda’s amazing gorillas with musician Laycon and join renowned singer Alyn Sano as she explores Akagera National Park, captivated by lions in their natural habitat.
Created specifically for African audiences, the series aims to entertain and educate. Since 1970, Africa’s monitored wildlife populations have declined by 80%, and every year the continent loses an estimated 3.9 million hectares of forest.
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. ‘Wild Africa’ 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 ‘Wild Africa’ 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 honour for IFAW to share in this noble endeavour,” said Azzedine Downes, President and CEO of IFAW.
Lee Ndayisaba, Wild Africa Country Representative, says: “Rwanda is home to extraordinary wildlife and inspiring conservation champions whose stories deserve to be seen and heard. By featuring beloved Rwandan personalities, including Ruti Joel, Aline Gahongayire and Alyn Sano, alongside the people and initiatives protecting our natural heritage, Wild Africa will bring conservation closer to the hearts of audiences. Through Rwanda TV, these powerful stories will reach millions of viewers.”
‘Wild Africa’ 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.
Watch the series on Rwanda TV every Thursday from 05:30 pm. 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.
