Omicron has wreaked havoc on travel plans globally. While it’s keeping many people out of SA, it’s also unfortunately keeping many South Africans grounded.
Book lovers will no doubt be packing the reads they’re looking forward to devouring on their local getaways but if you’re looking for company on a long road trip, or simply eager to explore the world beyond our borders while holidaying at home, Guardians of the River might be a worthwhile podcast to add to your “to listen to” list this December.
The eight-part documentary podcast follows South African zoologist Dr Steve Boyes who works with a team of African scientists and conservationists as they take listeners on a journey through pristine landscapes along the Okavango River in Angola and Botswana.
Drawing on eight river expeditions that took place over four years, each episode explores the connection between humans, wildlife, river systems and the important job of conserving the balance between them.
The first podcast was recorded in November 2019 after it launched as a project between the National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project, South African conservation-focused non-profit Wild Bird Trust and production company House of Pod.
The work that is being undertaken as part of the project addresses issues such as unprotected resources; threats like deforestation, uncontrolled fires, rampant development; and the continued impact that 27 years of civil war had on wildlife and the natural environment.
It’s not all doom and gloom, however. The podcast will also take you on a journey of discovery: the sights and sounds of the Okavango, its animals, its people and its tribes, with rich narratives to share as they are invited to participate in one of the most essential sustainable development and conservation initiatives on the African continent.
To get started, visit wildbirdtrust.com/guardians-of-the-river.
