by Thinus Ferreira
History (DStv 186) has made two new local documentaries, Great African Mysteries and Great African Escapes, both with host John Robbie, which will look at three remarkable South African mysteries, as well as three daring escapes over the upcoming two Friday nights including the sinking of the Oceanos, the disappearance of the Helderberg, and the discovery of Homo Naledi.
Great African Mysteries and Great African Escapes were both produced by Clive Morris Productions, with the two episodes that will air on Friday 21 July at 21:05 and on Friday 28 July at 21:05.
Great African Mysteries on 21 July explores three of the biggest mysteries in South Africa, including the discovery of Homo Naledi at the Cradle of Humankind, the hoard of gold which Paul Kruger supposedly hid from the British during the Second Boer War, as well as the events surrounding the crash of a South African passenger aircraft, known as the Helderberg in 1987 in which all 159 people on board were killed.
Great African Escapes on 28 July investigates three daring local escapes.
The three stories in this episode includes a look at the death-defying passenger rescue from the sinking MTS Oceanos cruise liner in 1991 on the South African coast and also reveals in detail the sensational prison break from Marshall Square by four anti-apartheid activists: Mosie Moolla, Harold Wolpe, Arthur Goldreich and Abdulhay Jassat.
Also included in this episode is the story of Albie Sachs' miraculous escape from a car bomb explosion in 1988.
Khayelihle Dom Gumede, Clive Morris Productions chief operating officer, says that "Unearthing just a few of South Africa's historical mysteries and great escapes has been an incredible journey of fact-finding and storytelling for CMP".
"Along the way, to meet inspiring people like Justice Albie Sachs and Professor Lee Berger who've had such an impact on our world and our country has had a profound influence on our production team. To be part of the channel known as the premier destination for historical features is an enormous privilege."
John Robbie says "I've always been a fan of the History channel, so I was delighted when the team reached out to me to be involved," John Robbie says.
"It is such an important project because so many South Africans don't necessarily know about these stories which are key moments in our country's history, shedding light on significant events and remarkable individuals. Both shows go beyond surface level and tell the stories behind the actual events."
Anita Gardini, marketing manager of the History channel in Africa, says "We're a premiere channel for historical storytelling, so we are incredibly proud to uncover six local stories through these two shows".
"It was great to work with John whose effortless narration and additions of little-known facts bring each of these moments in time to life. History Africa believes it's important to uncover and share our history in order to safeguard our shared heritage."
"We hope that viewers find these stories gripping and engaging and walk away wanting to know even more about our country's history."
