Zambia’s YouTube terrain is steadily expanding as Zambians are increasingly taking up space on the platform. Zambian youth are by and large leading the charge of how Zambia is represented online, defining narratives on different aspects of life in Zambia such as cuisine, culture and lifestyle. Whether you're interested in learning about Zambian history, expanding your knowledge of its cuisine, or binging on some aspirational lifestyle content, these 5 YouTube channels are worth checking out.
Time Machine Zambia (@timemachinezambia)
For history aficionados or those merely looking to explore Zambian history, Time Machine Zambia showcases a variety of historical narratives. Founded by musician Duncan Sodala (popularly known as the Holstar), Time Machine Zambia is both a vinyl record and comic store, as well as a Zambian history and commentary channel. In lockstep with its title, Time Machine Zambia is a metaphorical time machine, transporting viewers to different eras of Zambian history. From Bemba mythology to Zambian football legends like Charles Musonda, the channel details notable events, people, and milestones that have shaped the nation. Through short documentaries and lucid storytelling, Time Machine Zambia brings Zambian history to new audiences, making it an invaluable resource and historical archive.
The Z Historian
Viewers of Time Machine Zambia will also enjoy The Z Historian. The Z Historian was created by Major Victor Simukonda or ‘Victor Simz’ as is stated on the channel’s biography. His channel takes on a more investigative approach, offering in-depth accounts of figures such the murderous Mailoni Brothers and bringing to light lesser known historical events such as the murder of Ronald Penza. An air of suspense is maintained throughout most of the videos on this channel, heightening the entertainment factor of these educational videos.The Z Historian is an excellent repository of Zambian knowledge and a great place to learn about the expansive history of the country.
Nkwazi Magazine
We can’t make a list of YouTube channels without including our own! Nkwazi Magazine is a channel that explores and celebrates different faucets of Zambian life. From interviews with business leaders such as Sonny Zulu and Jason Mwanza, and documentary shorts about inspirational Zambian individuals like Elizabeth Mukoloma to candid interviews with prominent Zambian individuals such as Esther Chungu and Mulenga Kapwepwe, Nkwazi Magazine offers a peak into the best of what Zambia has to offer. If you’re looking for a beautifully curated entry-way into Zambian culture , Nkwazi Magazine offers content that captures the essence of Zambia’s cultural exploits.
Hungry AF
Zambian food connoisseurs will be satisfied with Hungry AF, a channel dedicated to food from a Zambian perspective. Whether its Zambian classics like soup ya mbuzi (Goat Stew), international cuisine like Ramen Noodles or fusion dishes like Lumanda (hibiscus leaves cooked with pounded groundnuts) Pasta, this channel explores the diverse flavors in a way that is insightful and accessible. Hungry AF is the perfect channel for everyone interested in food, whether you’re an established foodie or some one looking for entertaining food content.
Dr. Babe
Although she is a lifestyle creator, health and wellness are prominent aspects of the Dr. Babe YouTube channel. Dr.Munshya Banda, the face behind the channel, is a junior medical doctor and aspiring surgeon. She provides behind-the-scenes looks at her everyday life as a junior resident doctor, with the aim of educating and inspiring - sharing how she juggles her personal life with the demands of her medical career. She covers a range of topics from self-care to mental health and fitness. If you’re looking for aspirational, educational and positive lifestyle content, consider checking out the Dr.Babe YouTube channel.
The Zambian YouTube scene is rapidly expanding with Zambian youth at helm of this growth, and many creators are producing entertaining, informative and inspirational content. If you’re looking for great videos to watch, niche content or just looking to support Zambian creators, there are many amazing channels to choose from. Subscribe to these YouTubers and explore the wide-range of content they have to offer.
Where to find them:
Click the links below to watch.
