I've been fortunate enough to travel to Africa many times over the years, and the continent has always held a special place in my heart. Deep in the Central African Republic lies Dzanga-Sangha, one of our planet's last great untouched wildernesses. Here, elephants and gorillas still roam through ancient forests, alongside communities who have lived in harmony with nature for generations. But these iconic species remain a target for poachers and protecting them is a daily battle. Modiki is an award-winning ranger who leads a team risking their lives to protect this vital ecosystem. What makes his story even more incredible, is that he used to be a poacher himself. [Narrator] Dzanga-Sangha is teeming with life with a diverse ecosystem that includes tropical forests and wetlands. Local communities rely on these protected areas for their livelihoods and many traditional practices. The iconic species that live here are critically endangered. This is an Eden under siege. (ELEPHANT TRUMPETS) [Narrator] There is nearly two tonnes of ivory in this room, seized from armed gangs operating in the area. Despite a ban on international trade, the demand for ivory continues to fuel poaching. [Narrator] It's not just guns that threaten the wildlife. [Narrator] Many species get caught in these snares, including the western lowland gorilla whose numbers have more than halved in the past two decades. The ecoguards here are specially trained professionals guided by a clear code of conduct. As well as community-based conservation initiatives, they stand against heavily armed poaching gangs. [Narrator] In 2024 alone, team leader Modiki and his patrol unit walked nearly 2,000 kilometres, removing 4,000 snares, seizing 23 weapons, and making 11 arrests. And last year, he was awarded the prestigious African Field Ranger of the Year. What makes Modiki's journey even more extraordinary is that he wasn't always a protector. [Narrator] But after years of illegally poaching in the area, something happened that changed everything. [Narrator] The next mission takes them to the heart of the danger – Dzanga Bai. Thousands of elephants gather there, making it a prime target for poachers. [Narrator] As there is a chance armed poachers will be in the area, it's crucial Modiki keeps his team motivated and engaged. [Narrator] Dzanga Bai – a clearing rich in minerals. Its vital source of nutrients acts like a magnet, drawing in wildlife from every corner of the Congo Basin. [Narrator] Back in 2013, armed rebels stormed Dzanga Bai, slaughtering nearly 30 elephants. Amidst the carnage, Modiki risked his life, hiding to gather crucial evidence of the massacre. [Narrator] The importance of Dzanga-Sangha and the work of the rangers operating here to protect it is recognised globally. [Narrator] But the threat is far from over. As well as protecting wildlife from poachers, Modiki's team supports community-based projects like gorilla habituation, working with local trackers. This and other similar projects help generate income for local communities while also safeguarding wildlife for the future. [Narrator] This precious ecosystem, crucial for climate stability, depends on wildlife protection. Individuals like Modiki, through their bravery and dedication, give us hope for this future.