It feels weird celebrating Africa Podcast Day 2023 without an actual podcast episode but heck, why not? This year, we wanted to do something different but also relaxed. We wanted something that will inspire and educate as well as celebrate, so hopefully your love of podcasts will become even stronger.

It goes without saying, but podcasts have become a powerful tool for storytelling and sharing perspectives. With the need for underrepresented people around the world to be heard and understood, African podcasts have grown tremendously in number. This has allowed us to tell our own stories authentically on a platform designed for the busy and unengaged alike.

Celebrate!!!

On African Podcast Day, we celebrate the contributions of African podcasters and the unique perspectives they bring to the world through their shows. This day is an opportunity to recognise the power of African voices and the role that podcasts play in promoting African literary arts, talent and culture. This is why podcasts are deeply ingrained into what we do at Ayamba LitCast.

Podcasts from the motherland and those of African descent now cover a wide range of topics, from politics and social issues to personal stories and cultural perspectives. They provide a platform for African voices to be heard and for African stories to be told in their own words. In a world where African perspectives are often marginalised, podcasts provide an opportunity for our voices to be amplified and our stories to be shared on a global stage.

We should all dedicate this day to celebrate the diversity and richness of the continent and the role we all play as listeners and podcasters in promoting and preserving the African way. Whether you’re a podcast host, fan, or simply someone who appreciates the African voice, there are many ways to get involved and celebrate African Podcast Day, be it today or for the rest of the entire month 

Here are a few things you could try:

Listen to African Podcasts 

This one is a no-brainer as there really isn’t anything better than celebrating the things you love by doing them. However, this year you should take your time to discover African podcasts that are new to you instead of your favourites. Who knows, you might make new ones. Whether you’re new to podcasts or a seasoned listener, the joy of listening to these stories and perspectives remain the same.

Share your Favourite African Podcasts 

Now, if you tried our first suggestion, then this one is the logical next step. It doesn’t end with enjoying the shows alone, as there’s love in sharing. So, pass on your favourite African podcasts to your family, friends and networks on social media or any other platform you have access to. If you really want to spread awareness, use the hashtag #AfricanPodcastDay to get it trending, or join the conversation and spread the word.

Support African Podcasters

If you have a favourite African podcast, consider supporting the hosts by leaving an honest review, rating, or donation. Many of these creators do it for the passion but are unable to make a living from it. However, with your support and that of others, they could turn podcasting from a side hustle or hobby into a full-time profession. With your support, African podcasters can continue to produce high-quality content and improve their shows.

In conclusion, African Podcast Day is a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions of African podcasters and their unique perspectives on various issues. Through these podcasts, we amplify our voices and stories on a global stage.There are many ways to get involved to celebrate and we hope you do. 

Start your own Podcast

If you have a story to tell or a perspective to share, consider starting your own podcast. All voices are relevant, including yours, and podcasting provides a platform for each and every one of us to be heard. Your show could also be used to support your business or demand change in a community desperate for it. What your show will be  about is all up to you, and that is one more African voice on the internet.

Spread the African Voice Far and Wide

On this day, African podcast hosts, fans and enthusiasts were supposed to come out en masse for the fourth Africa Podcast Day event by Africa PodFest. Sadly, the one-day festival was cancelled due to what appears to be a lack of funding, but that should in no way hold us back from celebrating.

Melissa Mbugua and Josephine Karianjahi’s vision for today, February 12, doesn’t begin and end with a physical event. That was simply one of the preferred ways to celebrate and we hope that you can find other ways to promote African podcasts, whether they be one of our suggestions, a combination or none of them. The main point is to help raise awareness together.

So from the Ayamba LitCast team, have a happy African Podcast Day celebration!