A groundbreaking moment in South African cinema has arrived with The Last Ranger, the first-ever Xhosa-language film to be nominated for an Oscar. This short film is not only a cinematic triumph but also a bold statement on rhino conservation, language preservation, and female mentorship in the industry.

A Night of Celebration and Cultural Pride

A private screening of The Last Ranger took place on 12 February 2025 at Monte Casino, bringing together key figures from the entertainment and conservation industries. The atmosphere was electric, with guests adorned in elegant Xhosa regalia, a fitting tribute to the films cultural significance. Executive producer Anele Mdoda, known for her dedication to discovering and uplifting talent, highlighted that this film is about more than just storytelling it is about creating lasting change.

Though a short film, The Last Ranger delivers an experience that is deeply emotional, with moments of humour and authenticity woven in. It provides a raw and unfiltered look at the sacrifices rangers make to protect rhinos from poaching. The film immerses viewers in the harsh realities of conservation, making them feel as though they, too, have lived through these struggles.

The lead actress Avumile Qonqgo who plays Khuselwa (a name meaning protection), spoke about the depth of her role. She emphasized that portraying a character in such a real-world crisis required her to confront the social disparities fueling poaching. “We can’t just talk about numbers” she said. “We must address the root causes. Many poachers are not criminals by choice they are forced into it by poverty. Solving poaching means solving these deeper issues first”.

One of the most incredible revelations of the evening was that thanks to the relentless efforts of rangers, the Kruger National Park has gone an entire month without a single case of rhino poaching. This milestone proves that with the right support, the war against poaching can be won.

Mr. Lebo M, a renowned figure in the entertainment world, voiced his support for the film, stating, “It is the right thing to do. Quality should be recognized. We must move beyond focusing only on money and instead support each other in the industry. This film is about opening doors too, not just in South Africa, but globally’.

Beyond Film: A Vision for the Future

Executive producer Anele Mdoda’s expressed her passion for The Last Ranger and how it extends far beyond the screen. She sees this film as “part of a broader movement one that promotes conservation, preserves indigenous languages, and creates mentorship opportunities for women in film”.

The Oscar nominated producer shared that her vision includes a structured succession plan to ensure more women step into leadership roles in the entertainment industry,

“This nomination isn’t just a win for the film; it is a win for South African storytelling, for the Xhosa language, and for the tireless rangers who risk their lives to protect our wildlife”

With the Oscars approaching, the world will soon witness the power of The Last Ranger. By watching and sharing this film, people are not only celebrating African cinema but also contributing to the global fight against poaching. The journey doesn’t end with an Oscar nomination its just the beginning.

Support the Film. Support the Cause. Support the Future.