The Big Five of Social Media in Zambia

In Zambia, the most used social network is Facebook, followed by LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram and then Twitter on number five. Generally, Zambians in Zambia are not using social media as much as can be used, due to literacy, availability of relevant content and cost of connectivity issues.

WhatsApp, Messenger, Skype, and WeChat are social media messaging applications, not included in this article as it is focusing on networks, with a drive to provide insight for business and brands. Many businesses in Zambia and the continent at large, are not well informed of the benefits of Social Media, as they are of the scandals publicized thereof, bringing a fear and hesitation for business use.

Facebook for Business
The social network lion of the jungle in Zambia is Facebook. There are 2.2 million Zambians in Zambia that are using Facebook. Of these, 59% are male, and 41% are female. The growth rate of Facebook users in Zambia is 4.8% per annum.

The most followed Facebook page in Zambia is Zambia Reports with 1.1 million followers, followed by Mwebantu with one million followers, and the Zambian Watchdog with 716,000+ followers. Though fourth, interestingly, President Edgar Lungu, is the most followed person in Zambia on Facebook with 677,000+ followers on his page. The fifth most followed is the Smart Eagles.

As you assess Facebook as a potential platform, carefully consider your business goals. If you’re trying to acquire new business, Facebook might not be your best option, but if you’re building a dedicated following of clients and you need a way to keep in touch with them, this is a great option for your business.

To increase followers on a company Facebook Page, BluLeadz recommends that you “Invite Your Subscriber and Customer Lists”. If you offer a subscription, like a newsletter, make sure to invite your subscribers. They’re already interested enough to subscribe. Ask them to “Join our Facebook Community” or “Write on our Facebook wall” instead of the usual “join our fan page.”

Read more in Ganizo Magazine.