The Nigerian representative for Wildlife African Fund (WAF), Festus Iyorah, has disclosed that 66% of Africa’s wildlife has disappeared in the last 50 years, highlighting the need to educate children on the reality of African wildlife and the urgent system changes required.
In a statement signed by Iyorah, an exciting new children’s programme, Dr. Mark’s Animal Show, will be available to stream on Showmax from Friday 15 March 2024.
It said: “The unique, 11-part series showcases African wildlife like never before. Each episode takes a deep dive into a different animal species, from turtles to pangolins, unpacking their remarkable features, the roles they play in ecosystems, and the challenges they face in the wild.
“The show produced by the conservation organisation Wild Africa Fund, its arrival on Showmax could not be timelier.
“This is a way to engage and inspire hope for a different and better future. In the show, Dr Mark introduces his audience to some of the animals he has rescued from the illegal bushmeat trade for eventual reintroduction to the wild.
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“Each episode takes a deep dive into a different animal species, from turtles to pangolins, unpacking their remarkable features, the roles they play in ecosystems, and the challenges they face in the wild. Viewers can watch the trailer here. The show also features exclusive short messages from pop culture legends, such as Davido, Laycon, Focalistic, Nviiri The Storyteller, and Shekhinah.
“This new show is to spark the minds of little ones across the continent and engage them with the realities of the world and wildlife around them. Across several African countries, iconic wildlife species (including lions, gorillas, pangolins, leopards, chimpanzees, sea turtles, vultures, and numerous monkey species) are disappearing.”
The WAF representative noted that “This decline highlights the urgent need to raise awareness about these challenges and inspire action to address them, particularly with the younger generation. After all, they are set to be the future protectors of our wildlife. Parents and guardians are to watch alongside their children.”