11/05/2026
UPDATE: REVISED “BUDGET” MUSIC VIDEO BY YO MAPS — ZAM POSITION
Monday, 11 May 2026
The Zambia Association of Musicians (ZAM) wishes to update members, the music industry, and the general public on latest developments concerning the “Budget” music video by Mr. Elton Mulenga, popularly known as Yo Maps.
1. Background and Developments
Following recent public debate over certain scenes in the original video, ZAM received communication from Mr. Mulenga (Yo Maps) who informed the Association's President, Mr. Brian Bwembya on Wednesday 6th May 2026 that the video would soon be replaced. This signals that the artist has heard the concerns raised by fans, the church, the Association, and other stakeholders.
As at Friday 8th May 2026, ZAM and other stakeholders noted that the sections of the video that sparked national debate have now been blurred on YouTube. While a full replacement of the original video remains pending due to platform-related restrictions reported by the artiste’s publishers, an edited version has been made available. ZAM highly recommends that TV stations begin to play the edited version which completely does not have the scenes in question.
2. ZAM’s Position
ZAM acknowledges this step as a constructive response to public concern and a gesture of responsibility. The blurring of contentious scenes provides a basis for continued dialogue. However, the Association still expects a complete replacement with the fully edited version once platform constraints are resolved.
ZAM reiterates that it exists to support, protect, and guide artistes. The Association does not oppose creative expression, but upholds its mandate to ensure that artistic works reflect Zambia’s cultural, Christian, and family values.
3. Key Lessons and Way Forward
This matter has provided important lessons for the industry:
i. Responsibility and Response: The artiste’s willingness to revise the video is welcomed. It demonstrates accountability to audiences and national values.
ii. Respectful Engagement: Public disagreements must be handled with maturity and mutual respect. ZAM will not publicly attack artistes, and the Association expects the same regard when it raises matters of industry concern.
iii. Balancing Freedom and Responsibility: ZAM strongly upholds artistic freedom. That freedom must, however, be exercised with sensitivity to the social impact of content accessed by homes, schools, churches, and national audiences.
iv. Need for Clearer Standards: Recent events highlight the need for ZAM to strengthen internal systems. Going forward, the Association will circulate its code of conduct to all members, improve member engagement, and provide clearer guidance on content that may conflict with national values.
4. Commendations and Calls to Action
ZAM commends the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) for its 6 May 2026 guidance to broadcasters on content alignment with Zambia’s cultural values. We further call upon the Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) and other regulators to enhance monitoring and guidance on digital and online content standards.
5. Commitment to Unity and Dialogue
ZAM remains open to dialogue with Yo Maps, his management, and all artistes. We recognize his significant contribution to Zambia’s music industry and the pride his work brings to many fans. At the same time, we encourage all practitioners to embrace correction where necessary, respect industry structures and leaders, and uphold the moral expectations of the society they influence.
This moment will be used not to divide, but to build. ZAM will intensify engagement with artistes, managers, producers, publishers, broadcasters, regulators, churches, and other stakeholders to promote a music sector that is creative, responsible, united, and respected.
6. Appreciation
ZAM expresses gratitude to the National Arts Council, the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, the Ministry of Information and Media, the church, the public, and all industry stakeholders for the support rendered to the Association during this period of engagement. We appreciate their continued commitment to a professional and responsible Zambian music sector.
ZAM remains committed to unity, reconciliation, artistic excellence, and moral responsibility.
Have a goodnight and thank you all for your attention!
Issued by:
National Executive Committee
Zambia Association of Musicians - ZAM
