Four unknown facts about Zambian comedian ‘The African Joker’
Eric Mwaanga, a Zambian comedy sensation known by the stage name “The African Joker,” jetted into Juba to crack ribs over the weekend in two memorable shows held at Riverside and Extreme Launch respectively.
Dubbed “The Battle for Migingo,”, the show also featured Ugandan comedian Patrick Salvador and Kenya’s Eric Omondi. The City Review’s Sheila Ponnie caught up with the artist and documented some of the unknown facts about the comedian.
- How he acquired his stage name (The African Joker)
The African Joker’s real name is Eric Mwaanga, Initially, only a few people were aware of the stage name until 2018. Mr Mwaanga explained that the name came from a desire to connect with his community.
“I didn’t want to have a name that is going to be very difficult outside my country to run off their tongue,’’ he said. “Sometimes what makes people accept something is how comfortable they are with it? So I figured out that the name “African Joker” was the only way I could get out there and just let each and everybody be part of me.”
- Awards? Not his thing…
The comedian said that, as a people person, he is unconcerned about winning prizes and having them displayed in his living room. Rather, he considers the best accolade he has ever received to be when he makes people laugh with his jokes.
“I have the awards,” he said, “but they are not my greatest achievements.” “Making someone outside of my country happy and proud has been my greatest award.” I arrived in South Sudan, and let me tell you; the welcome I’ve gotten has been incredible. These are individuals of many ethnicities and cultures, and it nearly feels like home to me.”
- He believes “entertainment can move mountains”
The African Joker said he believes that one thing that can transform the African continent is the entertainment industry. He argued that many countries, such as Nigeria, thrive on entertainment.
“Because of the entertainment business, Nigeria is significantly superior to certain African countries.” According to him, if everything goes as planned, he may put all of his side hustles on hold to focus only on entertainment. “I know a few African professionals who make a career out of humour. If you are going to do it, do it now and don’t give up, “he advised.
- He is a music producer and a radio host
Besides cutting a niche as a stand-up comedian, The African Joker is a music producer, running a studio in his country. He also hosts a programme at Zambia’s Wave FM.
