TikTok has revealed a partnership with the Kenya Tourism Board, the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), and Conservation International that will let the platform bring live the Great Wildebeest Migration to its more than 1 billion monthly active users – no matter where they are in the world.
The collaboration will see the four organizations bring live the Great Migration from the Masai Mara National Park in Kenya together with educational videos about the event and the Maasai community.
The live event will be available on the TikTok Africa page from 25 to 29 August, from 6:30 to 8:00, and 10:30 to 14:00 daily Nairobi time.
“We are delighted to partner with Kenya Tourism Board, IFAW, and Conservation International to bring the Great Migration and the topic of wildlife conservation to our global community. Through TikTok’s LIVE feature, we hope to bring this global phenomenon closer to everyone around the world, connecting people with a shared passion for wildlife, nature, and conservation,” said Boniswa Sidwaba, TikTok’s Content Operations Manager for Africa.
The content throughout the LIVE will be curated by award-winning wildlife photographer Jeffrey Wu, and experts from renowned local organizations including African Wildlife Foundation, Maasai Mara National Reserve, and African Wildlife Foundation who will join the sessions to educate those tuning in on the Maasai Mara ecosystem, the impact and importance of tourism on preserving the environment, and the impact of the pandemic, among others.
KTB Chief Executive Officer Dr. Betty Radier said the collaboration is key in raising destination Kenya brand visibility around the globe.
“We are always looking for strategic collaborations to position the country as a preferred tourist destination and this partnership is a great milestone. Kenya is a rich and diverse country, with an incredible wildlife offering which we want to highlight as well as protect,” said Dr. Radier.
“Together with TikTok we can engage the world with content and experiences from any part of the country and drive more awareness of our country and wildlife, especially during this time when travel is limited with the aim of curbing the spread of the virus. Kenya Tourism Board is keen to ensure MagicalKenya remains top of mind among consumers and the TikTok platform is making this possible.”
TikTok users are encouraged to jump on the challenge and enjoy The Great Wildebeest Migration using the hashtag challenge and custom effect and help raise awareness around biodiversity conservation within their communities.
The Great Wildebeest Migration, branded as Africa’s greatest wildlife manifestation, happens because of the change in seasons with millions of animals, mostly wildebeest and zebras, migrating from Tanzania’s Serengeti to Kenya’s Maasai Mara where the grassland is much more fertile. The event is a daring and dangerous expedition for the animals as thousands die crossing the crocodile-infested Mara River as well as from other predator attacks.
