Pako shines a spotlight on Namibia’s desert lions

Annemarie du Toit
  • 1 Day Ago
The latest special edition of Pako magazine is a heartfelt tribute to its late founder, Petra Scheuermann, whose love for wildlife and education shaped the magazine into a cherished source of learning for children across Namibia. Now continued under the care of Have A Heart Namibia, this issue honours her legacy through an inspiring exploration of one of Namibia’s most extraordinary species: the desert-adapted lion.



A journey into the world of desert lions

Produced in partnership with the Vanishing Kings Foundation, this edition takes young readers deep into the Namib, where some of the world’s rarest lions roam. Through vivid storytelling, illustrations, and real-life research, the magazine introduces children to the unique adaptations of desert lions - big cats that survive scorching temperatures, travel long distances for food, and, in some cases, even hunt along the Skeleton Coast.



The story of the famous lion sisters, Alpha, Bravo and Charlie, guides readers through themes of resilience, survival and discovery. Based on true events documented in the award-winning wildlife films Vanishing Kings and Lions of the Skeleton Coast, their journey from orphaned cubs to pioneering coastal hunters captures the imagination while teaching children about the challenges facing these animals.



Teaching conservation through adventure



The magazine blends education with interactive fun:

– Word searches

– Dot-to-dot drawings

– Colouring pages

– Quizzes on wildlife and the environment



These activities help young readers understand conservation, ecosystems and the importance of protecting endangered species. The issue also spotlights “Earth Helper” careers such as veterinarians, wildlife filmmakers, teachers, field guides, and anti-poaching rangers, showing children how they can play a role in protecting Namibia’s natural heritage.



Communities, conservancies and coexistence



A highlight of the edition is its focus on conservancies and Lion Rangers, the frontline protectors who help communities live safely alongside wildlife. The magazine explains how local efforts, such as strengthening kraals, installing solar lights, and monitoring lion movements, reduce conflict between farmers and lions. Communities benefit through tourism income, while wildlife gains safe space to thrive.



Through storytelling, the magazine emphasises a powerful lesson: if we lose the lions, we lose our wild heart.



A loving legacy

This special edition not only celebrates the magic of Namibia’s wildlife but also honours Petra’s passion for teaching children to care for the natural world. With only about 20,000 lions left in the wild, the magazine calls on its young readers to become part of the solution by learning, sharing, creating, and caring.



This edition of Pako Magazine succeeds in being both educational and deeply inspiring. It encourages children to stay curious, brave and kind, and reminds Namibians that protecting desert lions is essential to preserving the country’s wild spirit for generations to come.