The significant growth in listenership of female-hosted podcasts on Spotify in South Africa represents more than just impressive statistics – it signals a fundamental shift in our media landscape. A 273% increase since 2019 demonstrates that audiences are actively seeking and engaging with content created by women, content that brings fresh perspectives to the audio space.
“What’s particularly striking about these figures is not merely the consumption patterns but the impact of woman-led content creation. With woman-hosted podcasts generating over 1.7 million hours of listening time, we’re witnessing the tangible results of women claiming their rightful place in the digital audio ecosystem,” Spotify Podcast manager for Africa Ncebakazi Manzi.
The consistent 35% year-on-year growth in this category isn’t surprising to those of us who have advocated for diverse voices in the media. This upward trajectory reflects a market correction – women’s perspectives have always been valuable, but platforms are finally catching up to audience demand.
In recognition of this significant shift, Spotify has partnered with UK-based podcast “To My Sisters” and South African based podcast “Wisdom and Wellness” to host a women-led and focused conversation. This collaboration further emphasizes the platform’s commitment to amplifying women’s voices in the podcasting space. Those interested in participating in this important dialogue can purchase tickets via the event link.
Women’s History Month provides an appropriate backdrop to acknowledge this shift, but it’s important to recognize that this isn’t a temporary celebration but rather evidence of a sustainable transformation in digital media consumption and creation.
The rise of female podcasters in South Africa and their growing listenership represents a significant cultural and technological shift – one where women are increasingly determining the content landscape rather than merely participating within established frameworks. This development signals a more representative and inclusive future for digital media in our country.
Female-podcasts to watch this Women’s history month
1) True Crime South Africa – ZA (Nicole Engelbrecht)
2) Wisdom and Wellness with Mpoomy Ledwaba – ZA (Mpoomy Ledwaba)
3) After School is After School with Sis G.U. – ZA (Gugulethu Nyatsumba)
4) What In The 20’s? – ZA (Zama Mkhize)
5) Rare Realities with Madimo Mimo Mokgosi
6) Sibling Thrivalry (Talitha Ndima alongside her brother Zuko Ndima)
7) Still Uncaptured (Kgomotso Matsunyane alongside Ndumiso Ngcobo)
*ENDS*
