By Yemi Olakitan
Conservation organisation, Wild Africa Fund, has unveiled its original television series, ‘Dr. Mark’s Animal Show’, on streaming platform, Showmax, to further propagate the cause of wild preservation and biodiversity.
In a statement on Saturday, the Fund said that the unique, 11-part series showcases African wildlife like never before.
It stated that 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.
It said: “The show’s arrival on Showmax could not be more timely. 66% of Africa’s wildlife has disappeared in the last 50 years, highlighting the need to educate our children on the reality of African wildlife and the urgent system changes required all in a way that engages and inspires hope for a differ ent and better – future.
“Dr Mark introduces his audience to some of the animals he has rescued from the illegal bushmeat trade for eventual reintroduction to the wild.
“The show also features exclusive short messages from pop culture legends, such as Davido, Laycon, Focalistic, Nviiri The Storyteller, and Shekhinah. Coupled with the interactive quizzes embedded in each episode and the real-time questions from the live audience, this new show is sure to spark the minds of little ones across the continent and engage the m 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.
“This decline highlights the urgent need to raise awareness about these challen ges and inspire action to address them, particularly with the younger generation. After alI, they are set to be the future protectors of our wildlife.”
Dr. Mark urges parents and guardians to watch alongside their children, facilitating discussions on the issues raised and learning about Africa’s biodiversity themselves.
He said: “The arrival of Dr. Mark’s show onto Showmax ensures that more kids, regardless of whe re they live, will experience this exciting and educational series.
“This is taking the conser vation conversation to new heights. These children will learn the importance of protecting wildlife, understand why we need animals to thrive in the wild and can share important conservation messages with their parents and society.”