The U.S. Department of State as well as the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) have announced that they are partnering with the Walt Disney Company and Wildlife Direct to launch a brand new educational television program designed to inspire people to help the world around them.
On Nov. 17, Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Christine Service of Walt Disney and Dr. Paula Kahumba of WildlifeDirect to announce the new program, National Geographic Kids Africa, according to a release by the Department of State. It will be a 26-part series, digital platforms and educational outreach program. The show will be produced in Africa by African filmmakers while telling stories about the leadership and expertise of young conservationists. It is designed to highlight biodiversity and wildlife, as well as the natural wonders of the African world. Filming begins in early 2022 in East Africa, but there will be more filming in West in Southern Africa, as well.
“The initiative will also include outreach activities throughout schools, youth groups, conservation centers and communities to develop understanding and connection to the natural world and encourage children and communities to protect and conserve their local environment,” the release states.
The series will involve partnerships with the Department of State, U.S. embassies and other local partners in Africa. The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs will be putting together “people-to-people” exchange programs meant to connect people interested in conversation, film making, journalism, teaching and other leadership roles.
"The U.S. Department of State, U.S. embassies and local partners in Africa will enhance this initiative through multiple academic, cultural and professional exchanges that will amplify local voices around conservation," state department officials said in a press release.
The release said that the Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs (OES) will lead efforts to expand and strengthen policy and programs. This program highlights African conservation leaders and youth’s work across the continent of Africa.
“The loss of nature and the loss of nature’s important gifts to people affect all people, and bold action to tackle these twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss is more urgent than ever,” the release states. “By engaging the next generation, National Geographic Kids Africa is a critical part of this effort.”
