De Hoop Bontebok of Hope - by Joshua Aiita - Episode 3

Описание: Darwin Leader: Joshua Aiita (Uganda)
Project Title: De Hoop of Hope - Episode 3 of 3
Filmed and edited: Elliot Connor
Location: De Hoop, Western Cape, South Africa

This three part episode takes you through the work of Darwin Leader, Aiita in Partnership with CapeNature as he uncovers a new threat that could jeopardise the future of the Bontebok in De Hoop Reserve, and what could emerge as “Hope for De Hoop”.

In the sweeping grasslands of the Western Cape in South Africa, a quiet but urgent story unfolds—one of survival, resilience, and the race against time to secure a future for the Bontebok (Damaliscus pygargus pygargus). Once hunted to the brink of extinction, this antelope species saw its numbers drop to fewer than 20 individuals in the early 19th century. Thanks to determined conservation efforts, their population was a historical success story, currently standing at over 6,000 individuals- but much concerning threats are just emerging.

While the Bontebok may seem to be thriving, fragmented habitats are an increasing threat, but a new suspected wave seems to decimate the currently existing population- parasite infestation induced by climate change. Working closely with Dr. Marienne from CapeNature, I explore how we can effectively collect data to monitor these animals—from detailed field observations to collecting samples for health and genetic analysis. These efforts, we believe, offer a clearer picture of the underlying threat these species already face.

But the data tells a deeper story. Without stronger ecological connections between populations, we risk losing the very diversity that once helped the Bontebok survive. This isn’t just about one species—it’s about rethinking how we protect wildlife in a fragmented world. With the right tools and partnerships, we can rewrite the future of the Bontebok—before it’s too late.

Darwin Leader Aiita Joshua Apamaku is a wildlife biologist and also a National Geographic Young Explorer from Uganda. He co-founded Terra-NatureWild Conservation, where he leads work on protected and conserved areas, combining science and storytelling to advance conservation. Currently pursuing an MSc in Biodiversity, Conservation and Management at the University of Oxford, he also serves as the IUCN WCPA regional focal point for young professionals in East and Southern Africa. Passionate about rights-based conservation governance, Apamaku shares insights through his podcast A Just Natural Africa and has been featured by the Robert Bosch Foundation, All Africa, and Youth4Nature.