Anthony Bourdain in Kenya: Lewa takes centerstage

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy will take centerstage in the first episode of the final season of Anthony Bourdain’s CNN Parts Unknown, when it premieres this Sunday.

Bourdain tragically passed away in June before completing the filming of season 12 of his Emmy Award-winning travel show.

His journey to Kenya with Kamau .W. Bell, the host of CNN’s United Shades of America, will be the last to feature his signature narration.

This isn’t your average commute. #Bourdain and @WKamauBell take a wild ride on one of #Kenya’s popular matatus on an all new #PartsUnknown, Sunday at 9p ET on @CNN. pic.twitter.com/4e8hcU0Wpe

— Parts Unknown (@PartsUnknownCNN) September 22, 2018

The trip was Kamau’s first trip to Africa and to a country that has a great personal significance to him.

His name, Kamau, is of Kenyan origin, belonging uniquely to the Kikuyu tribe. After digging deep into his ancestry, he also discovered that he had East African ancestry.

At Lewa, Bourdain and Kamau experienced the Conservancy’s work first-hand in protecting endangered species, including the black rhino and Grevy’s zebra.

They met with the Lewa team to discuss conservation best practices and went on an anti-poaching patrol with rangers.

“We are delighted to host Tony and Kamau at Lewa and welcome the opportunity to communicate with people from across the globe about the extraordinary place which is northern Kenya and the exciting conservation and development work which is taking place here, with communities at the helm.” Says Mike Watson, CEO Lewa.

“The CNN Parts Unkown series gives an unusual and fascinating insight into people’s lives and we are privileged to feature as part of Bourdain and Kamau’s amazing travels.”

The duo and their team stayed at Lewa Wilderness, one of the five lodges tucked in a hillside overlooking a valley, and has stunning views of wildlife and rolling plains.

They enjoyed spectacular wildlife viewing, and got to some of Africa’s most iconic species during their stay.

Lewa’s model is one that prioritises human development alongside conservation, ensuring that local communities have access to healthcare, education and economic opportunities.

Bourdain and Kamau also met with the community of II Ngwesi thaat works closely with Lewa in its conservation and development efforts. They were hosted by Mzee Lele Kinyaga and Kip Ole Polos.

“We talked about our culture, and they asked relevant questions about how it has changed in the last 20 years. We talked about human-wildlife interactions, since our community has lived alongside wildlife for a very longtime.

“We also talked about opportunities in the future . And they also got to enjoy some roast meat and joined us in a dance.” Says Kip Ole Polos , II Ngwesi board chair.

Faith Riunga, Lewa’s Head of Education Programme, feels privileged to have met Bourdain and Kamau.

“They were both highly engaging, and genuinely curious about the natural world, and the success and challenges we have had at Lewa.

“We spoke at length about education and its role in shaping thoughts and minds, and in creating a world that allows for both nature and people to thrive.”

A special extended episode of Parts Unknown will be shown 9pm-10:15pm ET, September 23.