African comedians are lighting up stages and screens around the globe with their unique style of humour and social commentary. The top 7 comedians featured in this piece are trailblazers in a rapidly growing industry. They have used the power of laughter to tackle difficult issues, break down barriers, and connect people from all walks of life.
Here we go!
1. Trevor Noah (South Africa)
Trevor’s ability to relate to a wide audience with humour while sharing his unique experiences has made him a trailblazer in the comedy scene. The dimpled star stands out not only for his hilarious lines, but also for his fearlessness in approaching difficult subjects like apartheid, and politics.
The highlights of his stellar comedy career include being the first South African to sell out a one-man show, hosting the Grammy Awards four times in a row, and being the first South African to host “The Daily Show” on ABC which won him an Emmy at the 75th Emmy Awards in 2024.
2. Basketmouth (Nigeria)
The comedian is known for his wit and ability to make rib-cracking jokes with himself on stage. Basketmouth started his journey as a struggling rapper but later discovered his hidden gift for humour while hosting the monthly show at The Den in Ikeja – a gig given to him by legendary singer 2baba.
Along the line, Basketmouth’s recognition and success reached beyond Nigerian shores. He was voted second Best Comedian in Africa by MNET’s Studio 53 Extra in 2010.
He became the first African comedian to host the acclaimed “Lord of the Ribs” show at London’s Indigo O2, a milestone achievement for the industry. The event was reportedly a financial success for Basketmouth, solidifying his place as one of Nigeria’s most influential comedic exports.
He is an inspiration for aspiring comedians.
3. Anne Kansiime (Uganda)
Anne Kansiime began her career as an undergraduate at Makerere University in 2007. The comedienne poked fun at everyday road experiences in Uganda and won many hearts.
Her YouTube series “Minibuzz,” catapulted her into the spotlight, gaining over 15 million views.
Now referred to as the “Queen of African Comedy,” she sells out arenas, auditoriums, and stages across the globe, including Kuala Lumpur, London, Lilongwe, Gaborone, and Harare.
Her list of awards includes the African Entertainment Awards USA, Best Comedian’s Award 2015, Comedy YouTube Sub-Saharan Africa Creator Award 2016, Outstanding Female Comedian 2016, the “Queen of Comedy” 2018, and others.
4. Michael Blackson (Ghana)
Michael (real name Jafari Ferguson) relocated from Ghana to the United States of America when he was a teenager.
After participating in several comedy competitions, his talent was discovered by hip-hop icon Ice Cube in a Los Angeles comedy club, which led to him being cast in the film ‘Cubeversion’. Not before long he became a household name.
Blackson has showcased his comedic skills on Nick Cannon’s Wild ‘n Out on MTV and sold-out shows in comedy clubs all over the United States.
5. Eddie Kadi (Congo)
Eddie Kadi was born in Congo and raised in the UK. He has been a force in the comedy world since the mid-2000s.
Kadi is known for his ability to combine British humour with his African roots to create a unique comedic style and has become one of the most successful black comedians.
After winning the coveted BECA Award for Best Comedy Newcomer in 2006, he made history by becoming the first Black British solo comedian to sell out London’s Indigo at The O2 – twice. Then went on to sell out London’s O2 Arena in 2010, filling the venue with over 13,000 fans, and proving himself a powerhouse performer.
Kadi is a presenter on BBC Radio 1Xtra.
6. Eric Omondi (Kenya)
Eric’s comedic skills were discovered at an event by Kenya’s popular ‘The Churchill TV’ host Daniel Wambua Ndambuki in 2006. Daniel took his number. A phone call two years later from Daniel opened the door for more opportunities.
Eric soon became a fan favourite on The Churchill Show. He performed at major events such as the African Kings of Comedy Festival in Nigeria.
In 2017, Omondi was the first Kenyan to appear on Jimmy Fallon’s show in the United States.
In 2020, BBC ranked him as the 9th funniest man in Africa.
7. Daliso Chaponda (Malawi)
Talented comedian Daliso Chaponda has thrilled audiences in South Africa, Australia, the United States, and more.
His journey as a comedian began in 2001 while he was in Canada. He opened shows for other comedians. As his career grew, he appeared on big stages, including international festivals.
In 2017, he auditioned for the television talent series Britain’s Got Talent and came third in the competition.
In 2018, his performance at the talent hunt show earned him a deal with BBC Radio 4 to create a series called Daliso Chaponda. The same year the comedian began his first headlining world tour ‘What the African Said…’
Chaponda has kept his fans on their toes with his unpredictable and daring jokes.
