By Khalifa Hemed
Published Novemver 18, 2021
A television series that seeks to inspire and promote environmental protection among children in Africa has been launched in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi.
Titled National Geographic Kids Africa, the programme, that is in pre-production, is set for a mid-to-late 2022 roll-out across Africa.
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This series, the initiative of US Department of State, US Agency for International Development (USAid) and The Walt Disney Company in collaboration with Kenya-based WildlifeDirect, is slated to develop and distribute factual, local entertainment and engagement programme for children
The 26-part National Geographic Kids Africa television series that will be shot primarily in East Africa with additional filming in West and southern Africa will air across Africa on both National Geographic Wild and Disney Channel, and will extend into engaging digital platforms that further explore biodiversity, wildlife and the natural world, as well as the threats and challenges being experienced.
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A community outreach project is expected to be launched by WildlifeDirect across East Africa, aiming to encourage learners from 200 schools to make a lasting impact on the conservation of species-rich landscapes. By investing in knowledge and skills, through tools such as conservation hubs, educational resources, bespoke educator training and more, the outreach programme aims to develop a passionate community of young explorers with the fascination and desire to protect their continent and their world.
Christine Service, General Manager of The Walt Disney Company Africa, sayss: “For over 133 years, National Geographic’s core mission has been to ignite the explorer in everyone through thought-provoking, fact-based storytelling from scientists, explorers, photographers and filmmakers. This initiative will bring children from across the continent into the conversation and, in doing so, energize the next generation of environmental advocates through this innovative and engaging programme.”
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“We are deeply humbled and proud to be working with some of the world’s greatest institutions, the U.S. Department of State, USAID, Disney and National Geographic, to transform conservation outcomes in Africa by inspiring people in Africa and around the world through the authentic voices of Africa’s young heroes,” says Paula Kahumbu, CEO of WildlifeDirect. “This series is a first in so many ways, not least the unique partnership but also because of outreach efforts which will deliver a positive impact on nature across the region”.
Matthew Lussenhop, Acting Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs in US Department of State,says: “A key element of our charge is to address the environmental, social, political, and economic challenges we all face. We look forward to enhancing this important initiative with people-to-people exchanges to inspire and connect the next generation of conservationists, filmmakers and leaders in Africa who will create lasting change to protect their natural environment. This partnership represents an innovative way forward to address some of the most pressing issues of our time.”
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“National Geographic Kids Africa embodies USAID’s new vision for global development that combines working together with our U.S. State Department colleagues, our private sector partner, The Walt Disney Company, and our local Kenyan partner WildlifeDirect. We could not be prouder to stand alongside them, and perhaps most importantly, alongside the students, young environmentalists, and kids from communities across Africa, who will work to protect and conserve the world around them— today and in the future,” says Karl Fickenscher, Acting Assistant Administrator of the Bureau for Development, Democracy, and Innovation with USAid.
