In recent years, podcasting has emerged as a popular medium for disseminating information and sparking discussions across the African continent. This trend reflects a broader global fascination with podcasts, driven by the convenience of being able to consume content on the go and the intimate, conversational tone that characterizes many podcast episodes. In Africa, this growing interest in podcasts spans diverse topics, mirroring the continent’s rich cultural, political, and social diversity. Here are Top-Ranked Podcast Themes and Topics in Africa 2024.
News and Politics
Given the dynamic political environment that characterizes different African nations, there is a keen interest in podcasts that deliver news updates and provide insightful political analyses. These podcasts offer an important platform for unpacking complex governance issues and fostering informed civic engagement. They help to demystify politics, making it more accessible and engaging to ordinary citizens.
1. SMWX: Top-Ranked Podcast Themes and Topics in Africa 2024
SMWX, or Smart News for You, is a dynamic and engaging podcast that brings insightful discussions on South African politics and current affairs. Hosted by Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh, a talented young political commentator, author, and musician, the podcast delves deep into the pressing issues affecting the nation. Sizwe’s charismatic and articulate style makes complex topics accessible to a broad audience, creating a space for informed conversations.
With a commitment to fostering political awareness and critical thinking, SMWX features thought-provoking interviews with influential figures, ranging from politicians to activists. The podcast explores diverse perspectives, encouraging listeners to question, learn, and actively engage in the democratic process.
Sizwe’s expertise, combined with his passion for social justice and youth empowerment, defines the podcast’s unique flavor. The platform serves as a beacon for those seeking well-informed analyses in a rapidly changing political landscape. SMWX is not just a podcast; it’s a movement that empowers its audience through knowledge, fostering a community of informed citizens ready to shape the future of South Africa. Tune in for an enlightening journey through the complexities of politics with SMWX.
Here is the link to the podcast. Enjoy watching
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk_qa4ssROH8aUDbgQXE5dA
2. Nigeria Politics Weekly
Nigeria Politics Weekly podcast is your go-to source for a clear and insightful look into Nigeria’s political scene. Hosted by experienced analysts, this podcast covers a wide range of topics, from governance and elections to socio-economic issues. You can expect interviews with key figures, providing diverse perspectives on the country’s political landscape. With a commitment to delivering accurate and balanced content, Nigeria Politics Weekly empowers listeners to stay informed and engaged as active citizens. Tune in weekly to gain a deeper understanding of Nigeria’s politics and make well-informed decisions with Nigeria Politics Weekly podcast.
Here is the link
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1024822
3. Focus on Africa
Explore Africa’s headlines with “Focus on Africa,” a podcast that delivers three essential stories to conclude your workday. Hosted by Audrey Brown every Monday to Friday, each bite-sized episode, lasting 20-30 minutes, delves into the continent’s top news, introduces the individuals driving these stories, and provides a global perspective from an African lens. Recent episodes have covered critical topics such as tensions in Ethiopia’s Amhara region, youth displacement amid conflict in Sudan, extremism in Cote d’Ivoire, and efforts to ensure inclusive healthcare access in South Africa. Stay informed and connected to Africa’s current affairs with the insightful and concise reporting of “Focus on Africa.”
Business and Entrepreneurship
With a blossoming entrepreneurial scene, Africa is fast becoming an incubator for innovative business ideas. Reflecting this trend, podcasts focusing on business strategies, startup success stories, and illuminating economic trends are gaining traction. These platforms provide valuable insights and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and offer established businesspersons a space to share their experiences.
1. The Flip a Top-Ranked Podcast Themes and Topics in Africa 2024
In “The Flip,” hosted by Justin Norman, a unique approach is taken to understand startups in Africa beyond conventional perspectives. Justin introduces a weekly podcast called “Flip,” where engaging conversations unfold with influential figures in the African startup scene.
Enjoy the podcast on this link
2. Invest Africa Insight
Discover valuable insights into African commerce with “Invest Africa Insight.” This premier pan-African commerce hub actively promotes investment and trade across the continent. The podcast diligently explores key economic developments in Africa, shedding light on the challenges that investors and businesses encounter on the continent.
Watch insightful content on the podcast here:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/invest-africa-insights/id1503559595
3. Mashstartups
Tune in to Mashstartups, the podcast hosted by Mashudu Modau, where you’ll explore the candid journeys and valuable lessons of emerging business figures in Africa. The Mashstartup Podcast aims to offer insights and strategies to aid entrepreneurs in their startup endeavors. By showcasing the expertise of innovative creators, notable entrepreneurs, and high-achieving professionals, this platform serves as a unifying force to foster the growth of African entrepreneurs.
4. Techpoint Africa podcast
Discover the ins and outs of Nigeria’s startup ecosystem through the Techpoint Africa podcast. This podcast stands out for its focus on delivering a comprehensive understanding of the key players in Nigeria’s entrepreneurial landscape. Recognizing Nigeria’s significant impact in developing and funding a substantial portion of the continent’s startups, whether on a pan-African or sub-regional level, the Techpoint Africa podcast serves as a valuable resource for anyone looking to gain insights into the dynamic and influential Nigerian startup scene. Tune in for a closer look at the movers and shakers driving innovation and growth in Nigeria’s startup ecosystem.
Enjoy the unique content here:
https://podcast.techpoint.africa/
5. Afrobility
Explore the intersection of Africa’s tech and business landscape with Afrobility, hosted by Olumide Ogunsanwo and Bankole Makanju. This insightful podcast, airing twice a week, delves into a specific industry in each episode, offering an in-depth analysis. The focal point often revolves around recent notable deals in the business world. Using these agreements as a foundation, the hosts provide comprehensive background information on the respective industry across the continent. Afrobility goes the extra mile by sharing links to background resources discussed in each episode on their website, facilitating a deeper understanding of the topics covered. Stay informed and gain valuable insights into Africa’s dynamic tech and business sectors with Afrobility.
Subscribe to the podcast here
Health and Wellness
Podcasts centered around health and wellness have garnered a significant following. They offer practical advice on maintaining physical health, promote mental wellness and chronicle personal fitness journeys. Given the often-stigmatized nature of discussions around mental health in many African societies, these platforms play a crucial role in breaking down barriers and promoting open conversations.
1. Health Matters SA
Discover reliable health advice with Cipla’s “Health Matters” podcast. Bringing medical experts directly to your earbuds, this series offers timely information on healthcare from a South African perspective. Stay informed and keep your well-being a priority with “Health Matters.”
Watch the content here on Spotify
Or enjoy this health content on You Tube link below:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1bEYf7GZnm3FLXAZtw3Xkg
2. The Health Wrap Podcast
For many, parenthood is considered one of life’s greatest experiences, accompanied by numerous challenges. This podcast series invites listeners to explore various key health topics affecting the different life stages of children in their care. In this series, Mediclinic Prime provides expert advice to guide individuals on their parenting journey.
Enjoy the Podcast here
https://www.mediclinic.co.za/en/corporate/mediclinicprime/the-health-wrap.html
3. Nigerian Health Watch
The Nigerian Health Watch Podcast is your go-to for health info in Nigeria. Hosted by experts, it covers everything from diseases to healthcare policies. It’s for everyone—doctors, and regular folks. Whether talking about community health or the latest medical news, this podcast keeps you informed simply. Tune in for reliable health info tailored to Nigeria.
4. Healthy Naija Living
“Healthy Naija Living,” hosted by registered dietitian Efoghor Josephine, offers practical advice on nutrition and healthy eating. Josephine shares tips, recipes, and expert insights to help listeners make nutritious food choices, manage weight, and prevent lifestyle diseases.
5. The Fitness Chronicles
“The Fitness Chronicles,” hosted by fitness enthusiast and personal trainer Tega Akpokona, motivates listeners to adopt an active lifestyle. Akpokona discusses fitness trends, workout routines, and tips for staying motivated, inspiring individuals to integrate exercise into their daily routines.
6. The Sleep Well Podcast
“The Sleep Well Podcast,” hosted by sleep expert Dr. Adeoti Owolabi, emphasizes the importance of quality sleep for overall health. Dr. Owolabi explores topics such as sleep disorders, sleep hygiene, and strategies for better sleep, empowering listeners to prioritize restful nights.
Education: Top-Ranked Podcast Themes in Africa 2024
Podcasts focusing on education are also increasingly popular. These platforms provide a valuable resource for disseminating educational content, discussing educational policies, and sharing student experiences. They help to democratize access to educational insights and spark important conversations about how to improve educational systems across the continent.
1. Disrupt Podcast
In collaboration with eLearning Africa, Disrupt Africa presents a comprehensive three-part podcast series delving deep into the African ed-tech startup space. Co-hosted by Gabriella Mulligan and Tom Jackson, the Disrupt Podcast keeps listeners informed about the dynamics and happenings within the African tech startup ecosystem. Building on the success of the previous “podumentary” series, the latest release, “Learning digitally – how ed-tech is boosting accessibility of education in Africa,” is a focused exploration of the continent’s fintech space. Developed in partnership with eLearn Africa and featuring special guests from the company, the series thoroughly examines the evolution, current state, and prospects of African edtech.
Access it here:-
https://www.tcc-africa.org/category/mazungumzo-podcasts/
2. Let’s Talk Education Africa
Award-winning educationist Stephen Senyo Tettegah started this podcast aiming to explore educational themes in research. He shares inspiring stories of educators and innovators in Africa making a positive impact in their communities.
Find the link below:
3. The EdTech Podcast
With a singular goal in mind, Sophie Bailey initiated the EdTech Podcast to assist teachers in generating and visualizing evidence of the effectiveness of their actions. Currently hosted by Rose Luckin, Professor of Learner-Centered Design at UCL and an expert in AI’s application in education, the podcast facilitates in-depth discussions on bridging the gap between ‘ed’ and ‘tech’ through innovative approaches. Celebrating its 250-episode milestone, the podcast boasts over 40,000 monthly downloads, establishing itself as a valuable resource in the education and technology landscape.
4. Cult of Pedagogy
Picture a podcast where every aspect of teaching, from classroom management to educational reform, is open for exploration. In the Cult of Pedagogy, Jennifer Gonzalez engages in conversations with educators, students, administrators, and parents, delving into the social and psychological dynamics of school life. Trade secrets and innovative teaching methods take center stage in these discussions. When not hosting guests, Jennifer shares advice in episodes aimed at making teaching more effective and enjoyable.
The Cult of Pedagogy Podcast
Target Audience: Teachers from all backgrounds.
Why Listen: Discover teaching tips and join a vibrant, supportive community of educators committed to providing the best for their students.
Average Episode Length: 30 minutes to 1 hour.
10-Minute Teacher Podcast
For teachers seeking a quick dose of inspiration and fresh ideas, Vicki Davis’ 10 Minute Teacher Podcast is a delightful find. Tailored for educators to enjoy during a coffee break, Davis delivers concise and practical information. Whether you’re sipping a cappuccino or bringing your cold brew, the episodes cover diverse topics, including using AI in the classroom, teaching financial literacy tips, and strategies to enhance reading stamina. With a global audience of 20,000 teachers across 194 countries, this podcast stands as a prominent voice in the education podcast realm.
Geared Towards: Middle and elementary school teachers.
Why Listen: Short and content-packed episodes brimming with valuable information.
Average Episode Length: 10 minutes
Where to Find It: 10 Minute Teacher Podcast
Culture and Arts
There is a strong interest in podcasts that delve into different aspects of African culture—from music to literature, visual arts to fashion. These podcasts celebrate the continent’s rich cultural heritage, while also providing a space to explore contemporary trends and innovations.
1. The EyesOfBrandon Podcast
An energetic networking platform that bridges the gap between Botswana’s hustle culture, music, and its vibrant community. Led by EyesOfBrandon, an entrepreneur, media professional, and ardent local music enthusiast.
2. Molara Wood’s ART for the People
Molara Wood, a Nigerian creative writer, journalist, and critic, is the author of “Indigo,” a collection of short stories. She achieved recognition by winning the inaugural John La Rose Memorial Short Story competition and received an award from the Commonwealth Broadcasting Association for her fiction. With a background as the former Arts & Culture Editor of NEXT newspaper and an extensive career as a culture journalist and critic, including a columnist role with the Lagos Guardian, Molara Wood has contributed significantly to the literary landscape.
Her works span fiction and non-fiction, encompassing essay writing, speechwriting, and literary editing, with a notable role as the editor of Ake Review for the third consecutive year. Molara Wood’s literary contributions extend to various publications, such as African Literature Today, Chimurenga, Farafina Magazine, Sentinel Poetry, DrumVoices Revue, Sable LitMag, Eclectica Magazine, The New Gong Book of New Nigerian Short Stories (edited by Adewale Maja-Pearce, 2007), and One World: A Global Anthology of Short Stories (edited by Chris Brazier; New Internationalist, 2009). Currently residing in Lagos, her short stories, flash fiction, poetry, and essays continue to grace numerous literary platforms.
Technology
With an increasing number of tech startups emerging from Africa, technology-based podcasts are in high demand. These platforms discuss cutting-edge innovations, industry trends, and tech news, offering listeners an insider’s look at Africa’s burgeoning tech scene.
With podcasts gaining momentum on the continent and Africa’s tech scene flourishing, here are some tech-focused shows to keep you abreast of the latest developments.
1. Forloop Podcast
Hosted by Ada Nduka Oyom, this podcast caters to the Forloop Africa developer community and tech enthusiasts. Covering a spectrum of topics, including development, UX, and ML/AI, it provides insights into the African tech ecosystem.
Watch it here:-
https://forloop.co.uk/tags/podcasts/
2. African Tech Round-Up
Produced in Johannesburg, South Africa, and hosted by Andile Masuku, this podcast is your go-to for updates on the African tech ecosystem. It explores various innovations across the continent, featuring expert insights into the African tech scene.
Watch it here
https://www.africantechroundup.com/
3. 24Bit Podcast
Based in Kenya, the 24Bit podcast is a bi-monthly discussion on tech happenings. Hosted by various Kenyan tech bloggers, it covers everything from new smartphones and fintech solutions to e-commerce trends in Africa.
Watch it here
https://techtrendske.co.ke/category/24bit-kenya-tech-podcast/
4. TechCentral Podcast
Hosted by Duncan McLeod, a renowned tech journalist in Africa, TechCentral is a leading news resource for South Africa’s ICT industry. The podcast shares insights on new technology and invites key players in Africa’s tech ecosystem to discuss the latest developments.
Watch it on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/techcentral
5. CodeCast Zambia
A biweekly podcast based in Zambia, CodeCast focuses on various tech topics, from AI and machine learning innovations to the role of developers in shaping the future of technology. It provides a unique Zambian perspective on global tech trends.
Stay informed and engaged with these diverse tech podcasts that offer valuable perspectives on the dynamic African tech landscape.
Access it on Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/2y2gpY4j5IG2tEdA0TTlQw
Sports
Football (soccer) reigns supreme across much of Africa, making sports-themed podcasts particularly popular. These platforms cover sports news, feature athlete interviews, and provide match analysis. They enable fans to stay updated on their favorite teams’ progress while deepening their understanding of the games they love.
1. Africa Business of Sport Podcast
The Africa Business of Sport Podcast, an acclaimed sports business podcast, provides expert analysis on the continually evolving trends, stories, and developments in the sports industry across Africa and worldwide. This award-winning podcast brings together diverse global and African perspectives to delve into the rapidly advancing sports business ecosystem.
Co-hosted by African sports business specialists Edem Spio and Jabu Mtwa, along with prominent sports broadcaster and TV anchor Shon Osimbo, the podcast offers a comprehensive exploration of the intricate dynamics shaping the business side of sports.
2. SportsLIVE with BBK
Dive into the most significant sporting narratives and listen to insights from the biggest names in the sports world on the weekly SportsLIVE Podcast. Led by the renowned Sunday Times sports editor, Bareng-Batho Kortjaas (BBK), and featuring a rotating panel of sporting experts, this podcast guides you through the stories that go beyond the scoreboard.
3. Bet Central Podcast
https://open.spotify.com/show/2zs3KOkcs9etL2Rs1rkIIu
Environment Among Top-Ranked Podcast Themes in Africa 2024
Given Africa’s rich biodiversity and ongoing environmental challenges, podcasts focusing on environmental conservation, sustainable practices, and climate change issues resonate with many listeners. These platforms raise awareness about pressing environmental issues while educating listeners about how they can contribute to sustainable living. The environment is among the Top-Ranked Podcast Themes in Africa 2024, and everyone passionate about the environment should keep a watch.
1. Outrage + Optimism
Co-hosted by Christiana Figueres and Tom Rivett-Carnac, the architects of the groundbreaking Paris Agreement on climate change, along with CDP founder Paul Dickinson, Outrage + Optimism delves into the stories beyond climate change headlines. Conversations with change-makers transforming challenges into opportunities, celebrating progress, questioning greenwashing, and tackling difficult issues make this podcast a must-listen for those passionate about the environment.
Watch it here:
https://www.outrageandoptimism.org/
2. Sustainababble
A comedic take on environmental topics, Sustainababble is a weekly chat hosted by Oliver Hayes and David Powell. This lighthearted podcast fearlessly addresses significant environmental issues through entertaining interviews, untangling confusing concepts and policies. With a touch of humor, the hosts expose greenwashing and incompetence, making it a topical, funny, and informative listen for those seeking insights into environmental challenges.
Follow the podcast on Spotify
3. Big Closets Small Planet
Michael Schragger: Exploring the environmental impact of the fashion industry, this podcast sheds light on the challenges and offers strategies for transformation. Hosted by Michael Schragger, the show features interviews with business leaders, activists, innovators, and entrepreneurs working towards sustainable solutions in the fashion world. Gain insights into efforts to address the environmental consequences of fast fashion.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/big-closets-small-planet/id1438519526
4. A Matter of Degrees
Dr. Leah Stokes and Dr. Katharine Wilkinson host A Matter of Degrees, sharing stories about the powerful forces driving climate change and the tools available to fix it. Featuring climate leaders, the podcast covers bold solutions, groundbreaking campaigns, stories of misdeeds and corruption, and the efforts of individuals striving to contribute to the solution. Join the hosts in making sense of significant climate questions.
Follow the Podcast here:
Travel Among Top-Ranked Podcast Themes in Africa 2024
With its diverse landscapes and cultures, Africa offers fertile ground for travel-themed podcasts. These platforms explore different African destinations and share travel tips. They cater not only to local audiences looking to discover new places within their own countries but also attract listeners from around the world interested in African travel experiences. Without a doubt ranked among the top-ranked Podcast themes and topics in Africa 2024.
1. Inspiring African Travel
HELLO EVERYONE, AND WELCOME TO INSPIRING AFRICAN TRAVEL WITH JAMES, JULIA, AND STUART. In their podcast, they aim to shed light on the numerous entertaining, inspiring, passionate, and powerful individuals contributing to tourism in Africa. The focus is on bringing forth uplifting stories rarely heard. These stories encompass female empowerment, local ownership in tourism, the endeavors of conservation heroes protecting wildlife, and thrilling travel adventures throughout Africa. Through interviews, James, Julia, and Stuart will introduce listeners to people whose tales inspire travel in Africa, emphasizing the incredible possibilities achievable through responsible tourism.
Get the link to the podcast:
https://inspiringafricantravel.com/
2. Conservation Storytelling
Presented by Matt Blair, a conservation videographer, this podcast on African travel aims to link listeners with the unsung heroes, innovators, and specialists working tirelessly to safeguard wildlife and preserve local traditions and cultures. From field rangers to researchers, custodians, and philanthropists, the diverse range of guests discusses current events, along with the trials and triumphs inherent in conservation efforts.
Here is the link:
https://conservationstorytelling.com/category/podcast/page/2/
3. The Green Piece
Tune in to The Green Piece for laid-back campfire-style chats with guests from the global sustainable travel scene, including philanthropists, conservationists, lodge managers, and safari guides. Hosted by Warren Green, an expert with a background in both conservation and the global tourism industry, this independent podcast offers insightful conversations not to be overlooked!
Watch it on Spotify here:
https://open.spotify.com/show/0mQ1sF9SlEAKnDAB9grlM9
Personal Narratives and Storytelling a Top-Ranked Podcast Themes in Africa 2024
Africans have a rich oral tradition, making storytelling a deeply ingrained part of many cultures across the continent. Podcasts that capture personal stories, folklore, historical narratives, or everyday life experiences resonate deeply with listeners. They offer a unique platform for sharing diverse voices and experiences, fostering a sense of shared community and identity.
1. Afro Tales Podcast
Explore captivating folktales and legends with Griot Amon Mazingo as he shares stories from Afro and indigenous cultures in the Americas and Caribbean. If you love tales from the African Diaspora and indigenous traditions, this is the perfect show for you. After each story, Chef will treat you to a recipe inspired by the narrative. Join this fascinating journey and be part of an unforgettable storytelling adventure.
Follow the podcast here:-
https://www.afrotalescast.com/
2. African life Stories
Meet Kwarteng Owusu, the host of African Life Stories, eager to share his extensive learnings and experiences as an African. Through this platform, Kwarteng delves into the decisions that Africans, especially the youth, need to make for the development of the continent and their nation, Ghana. The podcast covers a range of topics, from individual growth to collective progress, addressing challenges faced by Africans over the years and highlighting prevalent themes in their communities. Kwarteng also explores global trends and pays tribute to great African leaders who have left a lasting impact. Join him on this insightful journey of exploration and growth.
3. Stories Mother Told: African Folktales
Growing up in Port-Harcourt, Nigeria, they were shaped by African stories, but today’s children are not as familiar with these bedtime tales. This podcast is a top-ranked Podcast on themes in Africa 2024 and on a mission to change that, bringing these cherished stories to a new generation of African kids. Everyone is invited to discover the wonderful narratives from the motherland, ensuring that the valuable lessons in these stories are never forgotten. Join this journey of rediscovery and cultural connection through the power of storytelling.