This archive report was first published on 22 August 2019.
Launched in 2017 by Henrik Barck, Afripods is a game-changer in the African podcasting scene. The platform allows users to download and listen to their favorite podcasts and stories on the go, both online and offline.
According to Afripods, the use of mobile services and sales of smartphones is surging on the African continent. The platform aims to deliver the best podcasts Africa has to offer for free, available on mobile, computer, and other devices.
For podcasters, Afripods is a simple and accessible platform. With just a microphone and a computer or smartphone, users can upload their podcast. The platform is also set to launch a professional studio for in-house production.
Listeners can enjoy a wide selection of genres, including football, entertainment, politics, music, documentary, fashion, and tech. Currently, there are over 100 podcast channels on the platform, including Utunzaji Rasilimali, BenchWarmerz, and African Banana.
At the moment, Afripods focuses on English and Swahili podcasts but plans to expand to major languages from all over Africa. The platform aims to distribute and showcase all kinds of content with a focus on Africa, including football, African fashion, politics, documentaries, health, music, religion, and entertainment.
Afripods is taking on PortableVoices, a Kenyan audio production and podcast startup. PortableVoices has its own recording studio in Nairobi and is working with several popular podcasts, including Burudani Express and Campus Diaries.
