After decades as one of the BBC's most recognisable news presenters, Clive Myrie has embarked on a remarkable pivot into travel documentary-making with his latest series, Clive Myrie's African Adventure. The ten-part programme sees the journalist exploring South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, and Morocco across half-hour episodes that balance infectious enthusiasm with meaningful cultural insight.
A Welcome Departure from News Bulletins
For viewers accustomed to seeing Myrie deliver serious news bulletins, his transformation into what he jokingly calls "a warrior god" of travel television might initially seem surprising. Yet this shift follows his successful Italian Road Trip in 2023 and Bafta-winning Caribbean Adventure in 2024, establishing a compelling new direction for the broadcaster.
The series demonstrates Myrie's genuine passion for cultural exploration, as he immerses himself completely in each location. From attempting street art in South Africa alongside artist Senzo Nhlapo to learning traditional drumming and embracing amapiano dance culture, his willingness to participate creates authentic connections with local communities.
South African Homecoming
Myrie's journey begins in South Africa, where he previously served as a BBC foreign correspondent. Reuniting with former colleague Milton Nkosi, they reflect on how international media often presents a one-sided narrative about the country. Their exploration of Soweto serves as both celebration and historical acknowledgement, offering viewers a more nuanced perspective.
A particularly moving moment occurs when Myrie shares lunch with Ndileka Mandela, Nelson Mandela's eldest granddaughter. Their conversation about Mandela Sr's humanity becomes especially poignant when they discover they're eating his favourite dish of braised oxtail by pure coincidence.
Ghana's Historical and Contemporary Realities
The Ghana episodes represent perhaps the series' most powerful segment. As the child of Jamaican Windrush-era parents, Myrie confronts his West African ancestry through the painful history of transatlantic slavery. Visiting the fortresses where enslaved people were held, he reflects: "I've spent my whole life reporting on the inhumanity of human beings to fellow human beings, but this is personal."
Yet Ghana also brings joyful moments, including a traditional naming ceremony with the Fante people that gifts Myrie with the new name Papa Kojo Abaka. The programme doesn't shy away from contemporary challenges either, highlighting innovative solutions to pressing issues. Myrie visits the Or Foundation in Accra, where recycled fashion transforms western textile waste into striking new garments, addressing both environmental pollution and creative entrepreneurship.
Addressing Africa's Complexities
Throughout the series, Myrie maintains a delicate balance between celebration and serious engagement. In Nigeria, he encounters a startup using AI-powered chatbots to provide health advice amid concerning doctor shortages, while also learning about the country's disproportionate share of global maternal deaths.
The South African episodes showcase Myrie's hands-on approach as he cooks traditional bunny chow and supports a Durban craft centre helping women with HIV/Aids. His humble acknowledgment that creating a beaded South African flag might take him six months demonstrates both respect for local crafts and self-deprecating humour.
Traditional Travelogue with Modern Sensibility
The Morocco episodes adopt a more conventional travelogue format but maintain the series' characteristic warmth and curiosity. Even potentially gimmicky segments like goat milking become endearing through Myrie's genuine engagement and willingness to embrace new experiences without irony.
What makes Clive Myrie's African Adventure particularly compelling is its demonstration that celebrity travel programming can be both educational and emotionally resonant. By venturing beyond the usual European destinations, the series offers fresh perspectives while maintaining entertainment value through Myrie's natural charisma and journalistic integrity.
The programme successfully challenges preconceptions about Africa while celebrating its diverse cultures, innovative spirit, and enduring hope. As Myrie continues to balance his news presenting duties with this rewarding new direction, viewers will undoubtedly hope for further adventures that combine his journalistic rigour with this newfound joyful exploration of global cultures.
