BBC Radio 4 has announced the commission of a debut stand-up comedy series from Britain’s Got Talent finalist Daliso Chaponda. 

In Daliso Chaponda: Citizen of Nowhere (working title) the UK-based Malawian comedian will take on the role of cultural relationship guidance counsellor, helping to navigate the rocky historical waters of Britain’s relationship with Africa. It will be his first comedy series, although he co-created and starred in Radio 4’s drama When the Laughter Stops in 2014 and also appeared on The Now Show earlier this year.

Chaponda said: "I am extremely excited to have a show on Radio 4 because it's been what I’ve listened to on trains and buses to gigs for years. I am delighted I'll now be able to tune in to myself!"

In addition to exploring the historical relationship between Britain and Africa, the series will simultaneously explore his personal relationship with both places.

As a child, Chaponda lived all over the world with his refugee-turned-diplomat father, and now frequently performs in both Africa and the UK; experiences which he hopes to weave into his series to encourage a better understanding between different cultures. 

Sioned Wiliam, Commissioning Editor for Comedy for BBC Radio 4, said: “Daliso's comedy is shrewd and thought-provoking as well as being very, very funny. I am thrilled to be able to commission a series from him for Radio 4.”

Daliso Chaponda: Citizen of Nowhere (w/t) is expected to broadcast in 2018 and is a BBC Studios production.

Daliso Chaponda is also taking part in a charity comedy show at the Frog and Bucket in Manchester on June 25th, raising money for the British Red Cross appeal in aid of the victims of the Manchester Arena attack and their families. The night is MC'd by Phil Ellis (BBC Three's Funz and Gamez) introducing acts including Daliso Chaponda, Karen Bayley, Allyson June Smith, Danny Sutcliffe, Mark Grimshaw, Ryan Gleeson and Mick Ferry