Radio: Iron That Catches Words

In Northern Rhodesia, on the broad lands between the Limpopo and Congo Rivers, more than half a million primitive Africans have found a new, fascinating way to kill time. Every night in their mud huts they listen to their kabulo ka kwa-bamakani (small piece of iron that catches words in air). Their radios are tuned to Lusaka's Central African Broadcasting Station, and their favorite show is a request program called Zimene Mwa Tifunsa (Those You Have Asked For). They also have their favorite record, Don't Sell Daddy Any More Whisky, a lachrymose ditty in hillbilly style:

Don't sell daddy any more whisky...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!