Virunga National Park is constantly in danger. Despite being a World Heritage Site, numerous attempts have been made to exploit the region for oil. Located on the edge of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Africa’s oldest national park is home to over one thousand species, including one third of the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas.
Illegal oil exploration threatens not only the precious wildlife, but people. Approximately 50 000 locals depend on fishing activities in the park for their livelihoods. The rangers of Virunga are the region’s first line of defence, but they can’t conserve it alone. Past attempts at oil exploration have been halted thanks to the tireless work of locals and activists. It’s only through stringent implementation of laws and sustainable development that Virunga’s future will be secured. Footage by Adrian Steirn was used in the creation of this film.
Up Next in Season 1
-
Indian Tiger by Adrian Steirn
Just over a decade ago, 13 Asian nations met at the St Petersburg Tiger Summit with an ambitious goal. The tiger population had dropped to 3 200 in 2010. They pledged to double that number by the next Year of the Tiger. As 2022 looms ahead, the tiger population has increased by the hundreds. It’s...
-
Leopards by Adrian Steirn
From as early as childhood, the stories we are told shape the way we see the world. Classic tales like The Jungle Book and Jock of the Bushveld inspired Adrian Steirn to become a storyteller. But it’s about more than just entertainment for him. “If I’m not telling stories that have a call to acti...
-
Elephants by Adrian Steirn
Adrian Steirn’s elephant portraits are turning everyday people into conservationists. Based in South Africa, this award-winning filmmaker and photographer uses his work to develop empathy for Africa’s iconic giants. “We have a responsibility to ensure that every single person who follows me, shar...
