A National Geographic kids’ educational entertainment series is set to hit screens in Africa in mid- to late-2022.
National Geographic Kids Africa, a 26-part series, will be produced by The Walt Disney Company in association with Kenya-based WildlifeDirect, the US Department of State and the US Agency for International Development.
It will focus on the development of local content relating to the environment, conservation and associated topics that are important to children and their communities. The project aims to inspire and promote behavioural change in its audiences to protect the world in which they live through engendering a deeper understanding of the environment.
The programme, which will be produced entirely in Africa by African storytellers, will air across the continent on both National Geographic Wild and Disney Channel and will extend into engaging digital platforms that further explore biodiversity, wildlife and the natural world.
Paula Kahumbu, CEO of WildlifeDirect said: “We are deeply humbled and proud to be working with some of the world’s greatest institutions, the US 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. 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.”
Christine Service, general manager of The Walt Disney Company Africa, added: “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, energise the next generation of environmental advocates through this innovative and engaging programme.”
Matthew Lussenhop, acting assistant secretary, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, US Department of State, said: “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.”
tagged in: National Geographic, The Walt Disney Company, WildlifeDirect
