The African entertainment industry is dominated by men. More than likely, when you think African comedian, you may picture a male. This does not negate the fact that women can garner some hearty chuckles from audiences as well. Here are some African comediennes who deserve a mention.
Gina Obedapo Yashere
Yashere is a British-born stand-up comedian of Nigerian descent. In 2007, Yashere appeared on The Last Comic Standing but was quickly eliminated. In 2008, she became the first Briton to appear on Def Comedy Jam. She since has appeared on The Tonight Show With Conan O’ Brian, and Live at the Apollo.
In 2017, Yashere became the British correspondent for The Daily Show.
Jo-Issa “Issa” Rae Diop
American-born Senegalese actress, comedian, producer, and web series developer. She’s best known for her shows Insecure and Awkward Black Girl. Rae has appeared on Essence Magazine’s 2015 “game changer” edition. In 2017, Rae also scored big by gaining two show development deals with HBO.
Anne Kansiime
Kansiime Kubiryaba Anne is a Ugandan comedian and actress. She started honing her acting skills by joining the theatre group at Makerere University while studying to earn her degree. She garnered more noticeability when she started posting YouTube videos and tapings of her Don’t Mess With Kansiime TV show. She’s appeared on BBC Focus on Africa. Kansiime can be seen on stages in Lagos, London, and Harare.
Emanuella
Ten-year-old Emanuella Samuel was born in Nigeria. She gained fame with her appearance on the Mark Angel comedy video My Real Face. Emanuella can be seen in numerous skits on Facebook and YouTube.
Lihle Lindzy Msimang
Msimang is a South-African comedian, actress, writer, and presenter. She began her career by doing stand-up routines in Nandos Comedy Festival (Johannesburg and Cape Town), Johannesburg International Comedy Festival, Blacks Only Comedy, HIFA Comedy Festival in Zimbabwe and Gaborone International Culture Week in Botswana. Msimang has performed in premiere circuits such as Comic Strip in New York and Top Secret in London. She also appeared on MTV’s You Got Got