10 Years of Zambezi Magic

On 1 July 2015, Zambezi Magic launched on DStv channel 160, marking the beginning of a new era for Southern African television. The channel set out to showcase locally produced stories, shining a spotlight on the region’s talent and bringing authentic Southern African entertainment into homes across the continent.

After launching on 1 July 2015, Zambezi Magic became a 24-hour channel on 1 December 2016, expanding its line-up with local shows and African favourites like Windeck, Tinsel, and Isibaya. This milestone paved the way for new local dramas, ready to entertain viewers in the New Year.

In February 2016, Zambezi Magic deepened its local storytelling with two new Zambian shows. Njila – The Phase (5 Feb) followed siblings facing life after their wealthy father’s death, while Dependents (8 Feb) brought humour and insights into modern extended families, cementing the channel as a home for authentic Zambian stories.

In 2017, Zambezi Magic kept viewers entertained with Security Guards, a comedy about a chaotic security firm, and Spoiler, following the wild antics of a spoiled young man. The year also saw the debut of Date My Family Zambia, a dating show that quickly became a viewer favourite and reality TV hit.

In 2018, Zambezi Magic raised the bar for local drama with the launch of Zuba, Mpali, and Masauso. These telenovelas quickly became audience favourites, delivering compelling characters and relatable Southern African stories to viewers.

In 2019, Zambezi Magic expanded its reality TV offering with Style Guru, Nyumba Yanga, and Our Perfect Wedding Zimbabwe. The year also brought Tuvwange, a lively talk show where outspoken women tackled trending topics, beauty, and personal stories, adding a fresh voice to the channel.

On 4 November 2019, Zambezi Magic premiered Ubuntu, a gripping local drama about power struggles and family secrets in a royal household. When illness strikes the king, Mukango takes the throne, but his nephew Tachimba returns with dark motives, leading to suspense, twists, and unforgettable moments for viewers.

In 2020, Zambezi Magic launched Shi Mumbi, a hilarious comedy about a smooth-talking hustler juggling marriage, a secret affair, and a demanding mother-in-law. Premiering on 3 April, the show quickly became a Friday favourite, delighting viewers with Shi Mumbi’s chaotic adventures.

In 2020, Zambezi Magic showcased its dedication to local drama with Amooye, Ubuntu, and Mungoma. Amooye captivated viewers with tales of love and secrets, Ubuntu delivered royal intrigue and betrayal, and Mungoma explored ambitions and dark secrets in Zambia’s music scene—highlighting the channel’s rich storytelling and talent.

In 2021, Zambezi Magic continued to deliver inspiring local stories. Makofi premiered, following Anna’s determined journey to become a champion boxer despite her father’s resistance.

Esther and Chaka: #ZMForeverYours warmed hearts with an intimate look at Zambia’s beloved gospel couple’s journey to the altar. This five-part special invites viewers into the heartfelt love story of Zambia’s beloved gospel couple, Esther and Chaka, from their first meeting to their wedding day.

In 2021, Zambezi Magic launched Facebook Live chats with the Ubuntu cast, giving fans a chance to interact with their favourite stars. Viewers asked questions, shared their love for the show, and got exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, strengthening the bond between the channel and its audience.

In February 2022, Zambezi Magic launched Wanilata?, Zambia’s first local dating show where singles surprise their crushes by boldly confessing hidden feelings. This exciting “shoot your shot” series brought romance and heartfelt moments, lighting up the month of love.

To close Women’s Month, Zambezi Magic treated viewers to a Weekend Movie Special featuring Fatsani and Maria Kristu. These films spotlighted young Southern African talent, celebrating resilience and the power of local storytelling.

In June, Zambezi Magic premiered King Bugar, a reality series following Macky2’s journey from humble beginnings to music stardom. The show offered fans an intimate look into his family life, brand, and personal growth, revealing the man behind the music.

June also saw the debut of My Family Wahala, a comedy following lawyer Kenya as she navigates single motherhood, a demanding career, and chaotic in-laws after her husband leaves her for a younger woman. The show delivered laughter and relatable moments across 13 episodes.

In 2022, My Top 5 became a Saturday favourite on Zambezi Magic, pairing beloved Zambian musicians for unique experiences as they shared their top five favourite songs of all time. The show kept viewers connected to the heart of Zambian music while celebrating the stars and hits that shape the industry.

In April, Mutale Mwanza: Unscripted premiered, offering viewers an intimate look into Mutale’s life as a mother, businesswoman, and media powerhouse, breaking stereotypes while sharing her personal journey.

In March, the comedy series Kulemela launched, following Chopwicho, a Malawian shepherd with big dreams and a wild imagination, delivering laughter and relatable moments.

In June, Ten Tamanga Street hit screens, exploring the intertwined lives of three households as they navigate secrets, betrayals, and triumphs, keeping viewers hooked from the first episode.

In July, Kopala premiered, telling the gripping story of Muzo, a young footballer seeking justice after a wrongful imprisonment, with themes of revenge, love, and resilience.

In June, the epic Shaka iLembe premiered, bringing to life the story of the legendary Zulu King while celebrating Nguni culture with authenticity and cinematic storytelling.

On 25 July, Mpali celebrated its milestone 1000th episode. Since its 2018 debut, this award-winning telenovela has captivated viewers with the Nguzu family’s complex, layered stories of love, power, and polygamy.

In January, Love Back Zambia premiered, giving couples a chance to mend broken relationships against the scenic backdrop of the Zambezi River. Hosted by K’chinga, the show brings hope, second chances, and emotional reunions to Sunday nights.

Pastor Wants A Wife returned with a buzz, capturing viewers as a young pastor’s search for love drew in many hopeful women, leaving Zambia asking: who will become the official Amai Pastor?

Ifipempula premiered, following four women navigating love and hardship while bound by a chilimba. When a stranger enters their lives, their world turns upside down in this captivating local drama.

That Zed Podcast landed on Zambezi Magic, bringing podcast energy to TV with bold discussions on social media, comedy, relationships, and reality TV drama. The show delivers unfiltered conversations and insider stories every Sunday at 20:00.

The Queens of Kopala premiered in 2024, taking viewers into the lives of four powerful women navigating business, personal challenges, and rivalry in Zambia’s Copperbelt. Airing Sundays at 20:00, the show delivers glamour, ambition, and emotional highs, making it a must-watch reality TV sensation.

Shi Mumbi: A Family Affair returned for Season 4 in January, with Rex Shimumbi dodging jail after squandering his mother-in-law’s money, a grandmother selling fake herbs, and rumours of Bana Mumbi’s affair. Fans enjoyed laughter, chaos, and relatable local humour every Thursday on Zambezi Magic.

The Kachesha Comedy Show hit screens, following the loud and impulsive Kachesha as his get-rich-quick schemes and impulsive decisions lead to endless trouble. This hilarious series brought fresh laughter and chaos to Zambezi Magic viewers.

After 8 impactful years and over 1500 episodes, Zuba, Zambia’s first telenovela, aired its final episode on 30 April. The show’s legacy of championing Zambian stories, sparking conversations, and nurturing local talent will forever remain a part of Zambia’s television history.

On 5 May, Zambezi Magic introduced Inkondo, a gripping new drama set in the world of bus wars and family rivalries, where love blossoms across enemy lines. This uniquely Zambian series promises suspense, romance, and drama, cementing its place among the channel’s flagship local stories.

In July 2025, Zambezi Magic celebrates a decade of championing Southern African stories and nurturing local talent. From unforgettable telenovelas and reality shows to groundbreaking comedies and dramas, the channel continues to unite viewers through premium, proudly local entertainment. Here’s to 10 years of Magic—and many more to come!