Ba Matero
| Born | April 2, 2000 Matero, Lusaka, Zambia |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Zambian |
| Occupation | Comedian, Social media influencer, Boxer |
| Years active | 2021–present |
| Known for | Physical comedy and miming skits depicting suburban life |
| Notable work | Comedy skits on social media |
| Awards | |
| Children | 1 |
Francis Nundwe (born 2 April 2000) best known as Ba Matero is a comedian, former boxer, and social media influencer known for his humorous skits portraying everyday township life in Lusaka’s suburb of Matero. His comedy blends silent acting, exaggerated expressions, and relatable “petty theft” scenarios, earning him widespread popularity online. He became widely recognized after one of his videos—where he humorously pretended to steal from a Shoprite store—went viral, briefly leading to his arrest and boosting his fame nationwide.
Early life and education
Francis Nundwe was born and raised in Matero, Lusaka. He attended primary school in Matero, later proceeding to New Matero Secondary School for grades 10 and 11, before completing grade 12 at Libala Secondary School in 2019. He is the fourth child of Bishop John General, a well-known Lusaka-based preacher.
Career
Rise to fame
Ba Matero began posting comedic skits on social media in 2021. Within a few months, his unique non-verbal style attracted thousands of followers. His major breakthrough came when one of his videos, in which he pretended to steal items from a Shoprite supermarket, went viral and briefly landed him in police custody—a moment that significantly increased his visibility and fan base.
Comedic style
Influenced by British comedian Rowan Atkinson (Mr. Bean), Ba Matero relies on physical gestures and facial expressions rather than dialogue. His skits humorously portray daily township experiences, often focusing on relatable petty theft scenes and street-smart behavior. He jokingly describes his on-screen persona as a graduate of the “Matero University of Thieving.” The recurring use of the song Nalitumpa Ine by 4 na 5 featuring Slap Dee has become a signature feature in his videos.
Awards and endorsements
Ba Matero’s growing influence has earned him multiple awards, including the Best Influencer Award at the Zamtel Social Media Awards, where he received a new Toyota Hilux and K125,000 in prize money. His online success has also led to partnerships and brand collaborations with companies such as MTN Zambia, GSB, and 1xBet.
Boxing career
Before focusing on comedy, Ba Matero was a professional boxer. Competing under the nickname “Kappa,” he represented Zambia through the Exodus Boxing Academy, where he won a gold medal. While he has stated that he may one day return to the ring, he currently prioritizes his entertainment career. He also assists in managing his father’s media team at Healing Center Television.
Personal life
Ba Matero is married and has one child. He is the son of Bishop John General, a well-known preacher who initially disapproved of his comedy career due to its controversial nature and legal challenges. In 2024, Bishop General publicly prophesied that his son’s fame could become a distraction, an incident that attracted media attention. Ba Matero later called for forgiveness and reconciliation, defending his father. The two have since reconciled, and Bishop General is now one of his strongest supporters.
Philosophy and impact
Ba Matero maintains that his comedy is meant to entertain and educate rather than promote theft. He emphasizes that his skits teach awareness, caution, and social responsibility. He considers himself his own competition and aspires to meet his inspiration, Rowan Atkinson (Mr. Bean).
