Lusaka, Zambia – April 30, 2026 – The Zambia Association of Musicians (ZAM) has officially responded to growing public concerns surrounding certain scenes in Yo Maps Yo’s latest music video titled “Budget”, featuring Frank Ro and Dizmo.
In a strongly-worded statement issued by ZAM President Brian Bwembya, the association acknowledged that many Zambians have raised alarm over scenes in the video that some viewers believe are culturally inappropriate and not suitable for the country’s moral and social values.
Parents and Guardians Raise Concern Over Children Watching the Video
ZAM said it has taken note of concerns particularly expressed by parents and guardians, who fear that the controversial scenes may influence children negatively.
The association stated that it would not describe the specific scenes out of respect for younger audiences who may come across the statement.
“We are particularly mindful of the concerns expressed by parents and guardians who fear that such scenes may normalize behavior that is unsuitable for children who love and consume Yo Maps’ video content,” ZAM stated.
ZAM Confirms Engagement With Yo Maps Since April 26
ZAM disclosed that it has been actively engaging Yo Maps and his team since Sunday, April 26, 2026, the day the association first reached out to advise that the video be edited to align with Zambia’s cultural expectations.
“At that time, we advised that the video be edited to align with Zambia’s cultural values and public expectations,” the statement read.
“With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility” – ZAM Warns Yo Maps
ZAM emphasized that while it supports artistic freedom, artists also have a responsibility to be mindful of their influence, especially those with massive followings like Yo Maps.
The association reminded the artiste that his brand commands millions of views and attracts audiences across Zambia and beyond, meaning his content has a strong impact on society.
“As the saying goes, with great power comes great responsibility,” ZAM stated.
The association also pointed out that Zambia is a Christian nation, and therefore artistic works should reflect ethical standards and cultural tenets that guide society.
NAC Also Involved as Talks Intensify
ZAM revealed that it has been working closely with its mother body, the National Arts Council (NAC), in addressing the matter.
The association said extensive consultations have taken place over the past week to ensure the issue is resolved professionally without damaging the artiste’s online performance metrics.
ZAM Offers Technical Guidance on Editing Video Without Full Removal
In a major revelation, ZAM confirmed that it provided Yo Maps and his team with technical guidance on how to edit the video directly on YouTube without taking it down completely.
The association explained that removing the video entirely would negatively affect viewership, engagement, and YouTube metrics.
Following this advice, the video director Longwe Nyirenda, popularly known as Director Lo, reportedly confirmed that he understood the recommended editing mechanism.
Reel Studios Confirms Edits Completed, Upload Process Underway
ZAM further disclosed that as of Thursday, April 30, 2026, Olios Records’ production partner Reel Studios informed the association that the necessary edits had been completed.
Reel Studios reportedly explained that the process of replacing the original video with a revised version is already underway.
They also stated that although the first upload attempt failed, a second attempt had been made, and an alternative version of the video has already been circulated locally.
ZAM Reaffirms Commitment to Cultural Responsibility in Music
ZAM said it remains committed to ensuring that musicians exercise their creative freedoms responsibly while upholding the integrity of Zambia’s music industry.
The association also praised Yo Maps for his contribution to Zambian music, stating that the artiste remains one of the country’s leading performers.
“We continue to celebrate Yo Maps for his talent and contribution to Zambian music, even as we work collectively to uphold the integrity and decorum of our industry,” ZAM stated.
ZAM Reminds Public of Its Legal Mandate
ZAM also reminded the public that it is Zambia’s official governing body for the music industry, established under the National Arts Council Act No. 31 of 1994, and backed by Statutory Instruments No. 128 and 129 of 1995.
Mixed Reactions Trail Yo Maps’ New “Budget” Music Video
