The Last Lions

The Last Lions follows the journey of a lioness named Ma di Tau (“Mother of Lions”) and her cubs as they struggle to survive in Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Set against the backdrop of Africa’s dwindling lion population, it captures the harsh realities and challenges faced by these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Directed by Dereck and Beverly Joubert and narrated by Jeremy Irons, this National Geographic film tells the dramatic story of Ma di Tau as she fights to protect her cubs from numerous threats in the lush wetlands of the Okavango Delta. The lioness must navigate dangers posed by rival predators, aggressive buffalo herds, and an ever-changing landscape.

The documentary highlights the critical state of lion conservation in Africa. Fifty years ago, there were nearly half a million lions roaming the continent. Today, that number has fallen drastically to around 20,000. Unlike elephants, lions have minimal protection under government mandates or international accords, making their situation even more precarious.