Owas Ray Mwape is a renowned Zambian filmmaker, actor, and writer who has made significant contributions to the African film and entertainment industry. With a career spanning several decades, Mwape is best known for his acclaimed roles in films such as Mwansa the Great, Suwi, and Fever. Beyond acting, he has established himself as a prolific filmmaker and producer, founding his own production company, Owas Films.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Owas Ray Mwape |
| Date of Birth | 1972 (Age 52-53 as of 2025) |
| Place of Birth | Ndola, Zambia |
| Nationality | Zambian |
| State of Origin | Copperbelt Province (Ndola) |
| Partner | Currently unmarried; previously married to Saboi Imboela (divorced) |
| Children | Six (5 sons and 1 daughter); sons include Maxwell and Mayamiko |
| Occupations | Actor, Filmmaker, Director, Producer, Writer |
| Net Worth | Estimated $100,000 to $2.5 million USD |
Early Life and Education
Born in Ndola in Zambia’s Copperbelt Province, Mwape experienced frequent relocations due to his father’s job as a bank accountant, moving through places like Kafue, Chama, and Lusaka.
He attended Kasempa Boys School in the early 1990s, where his acting passion emerged, and later studied marketing at Copperbelt University.
Career
Mwape entered television with the serial Kabanana from 2004 to 2008, followed by his cinematic breakthrough in The Lawyer, which drew massive audiences and showcased his commanding screen presence.
He dominated early awards by winning Best Actor nationally from 1990 to 1992, establishing himself as Zambia’s top performer during that era. His film credits expanded to include Redbag, Complicated Affairs, Justice at Stake, The Wife, Chidongo, The Ticket, and A Beautiful Lie, demonstrating versatility across drama and social commentary.
In 2013, he launched Owas Films, marking his shift to full-time production and direction. Key directorial works include Chenda and Secrets Untold in 2015, the latter premiering at Ster Kinekor in Lusaka, and Strictly By Invitation in 2016, co-written by his brother Robam Mwape and featuring family talent.
Productions like Girls 2 Ladies tackle drug abuse in schools, while he continues acting in hits like the DStv soap Zuba. At 52, Mwape balances producing, directing, and mentoring young filmmakers through his company.
Personal Life
Previously married to singer Saboi Imboela, their union ended in divorce amid public discussions. Mwape is father to six children, including five sons like Maxwell, who directs films, and Mayamiko, who has battled drug addiction—a topic Mwape has openly addressed to reduce stigma in Zambia.
Net Worth
Owas Ray Nwape’s net worth is estimated between $100,000 and $2.5 million, drawn from decades in acting, directing, producing, and his production company.
Filmography (selected)
| Year | Film | Role | Genre |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | Suwi | Dr. Chimba | Film |
| 2011 | Mwansa the Great | Actor, Writer | Short Film |
| 2012 | Africa First: Volume Two | Mwansa (adult) | Video Film |
| 2015 | Kabanana | Chembo | TV Series |
| 2018 | Fever | Marlon | TV Series |
Awards and Nominations
Mwape secured the National Award for Best Actor in 1990, 1991, and 1992—the only Zambian to win consecutively for three years. He has earned further nods for directing and industry contributions.
