Ranking Factors
The following factors were considered when ranking these podcasts as the most popular in Zambia:
- Listener engagement and audience size - measured through reviews, ratings, and social media following
- Content freshness and consistency - regular episode releases and up-to-date content
- Cultural relevance - resonance with Zambian audiences and local context
- Production quality - audio quality, editing, and overall professionalism
- Guest caliber and diversity - quality and variety of featured personalities
- Platform availability - presence across multiple streaming platforms (Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube)
- Social impact - contribution to Zambian discourse and community building
- Longevity and episode count - sustained presence in the podcast landscape
Zambia's podcast scene has experienced remarkable growth over the past few years, with local creators producing content that resonates deeply with both domestic and diaspora audiences. From entertainment and culture to business and history, Zambian podcasts are carving out their unique space in Africa's expanding audio content landscape. These shows offer authentic conversations, untold stories, and perspectives that mainstream media often overlooks. Here are the 10 most popular podcasts currently making waves in Zambia.
1. That Zed Podcast
That Zed Podcast stands as one of Zambia's most recognizable podcast brands, delivering raw, uncensored conversations with the country's movers and shakers. Hosted by "The Brothers" - Kalenga K-plus Chambatu and Elson Chigerwe - this show has built a loyal following through its punchy, often controversial style. With over 150 episodes under their belt, the hosts interview artists, entrepreneurs, TV personalities, and influencers who are shaping Zambian culture and business. The podcast's strength lies in its authenticity and willingness to tackle topics others might avoid, making it a must-listen for anyone wanting an unfiltered look at contemporary Zambia.
2. Nkwazi Unfiltered
Produced by Nkwazi Magazine, this podcast series features intimate conversations with influential figures across Zambia's business, entertainment, and creative industries. Hosted by Kamiza Chikula and Chana Musakanya, Nkwazi Unfiltered creates a warm, living-room atmosphere where guests feel comfortable sharing their personal and professional journeys. The podcast has quickly gained traction for its candid approach and high-profile guests, offering listeners genuine insights into the experiences, challenges, and successes of Zambia's leading voices. With episodes available on YouTube and major streaming platforms, it continues to attract diverse audiences.
3. Leading Ladies
Leading Ladies is a groundbreaking animated podcast that explores the hidden figures of Zambian history - powerful African women leaders from the 17th and 19th centuries. Created by Samba Yonga and Mulenga Kapwepwe, founders of the Women's History Museum Zambia, each five-minute episode shines light on female leaders whose contributions have been overlooked or forgotten. The podcast challenges historical narratives that diminished women's roles in leadership and provides much-needed representation of African women's agency and power. Its bite-sized format makes it perfect for listeners seeking inspiration and education during their daily routines.
4. Excuse My Zambian
Hosted by Ruth Bwalya Musange, Excuse My Zambian offers a fresh, humorous, and honest exploration of Zambian identity and culture. The podcast delves into what it means to be Zambian in the modern era, particularly for millennials navigating between tradition and contemporary life. With Zambia's 72 different tribes bringing diverse customs, values, and spiritual traditions, the show provides valuable context about the country's rich cultural tapestry. It covers past and present Zambians, historical migrations, and the evolution of Zambian society, making it essential listening for anyone interested in understanding the nation's complex identity.
5. BongoHive Podcast
As Zambia's premier innovation and technology hub, BongoHive produces a podcast that explores entrepreneurship, technology, and innovation both locally and across Africa. The show brings together thought leaders, tech enthusiasts, and entrepreneurs to discuss trends, challenges, and opportunities in the startup ecosystem. Season 1 maps out challenges that budding entrepreneurs face, while Season 2 explores actual entrepreneurial journeys of startups and small businesses with expert insights. With 20 episodes across two seasons, the podcast equips listeners with practical knowledge for navigating the business world.
6. Humanise by INFRATEL
Humanise goes beyond technology headlines to explore the people, ideas, and breakthroughs shaping Zambia's digital future. Powered by INFRATEL Corporation, this storytelling podcast offers candid insights into teams, innovators, policy drivers, and everyday users behind the country's biggest digital milestones. From national connectivity programs to cloud adoption, digital skills, cybersecurity, and business transformation, Humanise presents a human-centered look at Zambia's technological evolution. The podcast stands out for making complex tech topics accessible and relatable to general audiences.
7. UmoyoTalks
Hosted by Kim Otteby, UmoyoTalks focuses on fitness, health, and wellness - topics increasingly important to Zambian audiences. The name "Umoyo" means life, health, or existence in Chichewa, perfectly capturing the podcast's mission. Through conversations with health professionals and wellness experts, the show addresses various health issues, prevention strategies, and treatment options. It empowers listeners to make informed decisions about their health and adopt healthier lifestyles, filling an important gap in accessible health education content.
8. Mwende Bwino
Translating to "Go Well" in several Zambian languages, Mwende Bwino is a travel-themed podcast that inspires listeners to explore their city, country, continent, and beyond. The show taps into growing interest among Zambians in discovering local destinations and understanding their place within the broader African context. By featuring travel stories, destination guides, and cultural explorations, Mwende Bwino encourages Zambians to appreciate their own backyard while developing global perspectives.
9. Zambian Music Showcase
Hosted by Kusanta Ntangi Chilebe (DJ Kipclassic), this podcast celebrates Zambian music and its cultural significance. Music plays a vital role in Zambian society, influencing social and political life through traditional polymeters and drum rhythms. The podcast features the newest and trending songs while providing context about artists and genres. By promoting Zambian music to international audiences, the show helps preserve musical traditions while supporting contemporary artists in gaining wider recognition.
10. Apostle Fredrick Kaluluma - City of the Lord Church
Religious content remains highly popular in Zambia, and this podcast from Senior Pastor Fredrick Kaluluma serves a dedicated audience seeking spiritual guidance. Based at City of the Lord Church headquarters in Lusaka, the podcast shares sermons and teachings focused on bringing hope to the hopeless and building a community of faith-filled believers. Its consistent content delivery and message of love and faith resonate strongly with Zambia's predominantly Christian population.
Zambia's podcast landscape demonstrates the country's growing appetite for diverse, locally-produced audio content. These 10 podcasts represent the best of what Zambian creators are offering - authentic voices, important conversations, and stories that matter to local audiences. Whether you're in Zambia or the diaspora, these shows provide valuable connections to Zambian culture, innovation, history, and contemporary life. As the podcasting industry continues to mature, expect even more exciting content from Zambian creators in the years ahead.
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