The Zambia Association of Musicians (ZAM) has issued an official update regarding the revised version of Yo Maps’ controversial “Budget” music video, confirming that the scenes which sparked national debate have now been blurred on YouTube as the process to fully replace the original version continues.
In a statement released on Monday, May 11, 2026, ZAM said it wishes to update its members, the music industry, and the general public on the latest developments surrounding the music video by Elton Mulenga, popularly known as Yo Maps, which recently attracted public criticism after some scenes were considered culturally inappropriate within the Zambian context.
ZAM revealed that Yo Maps personally communicated with the Association’s President, Brian Bwembya, on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, informing him that the video would soon be replaced. According to ZAM, this signaled that the artiste had heard the concerns raised by fans, the church, the Association, and other stakeholders.
The Association further disclosed that by Friday, May 8, 2026, it had been noted that the sections of the “Budget” video that caused the national uproar had been blurred on YouTube. ZAM stated that although a full replacement of the original version is still pending, the artiste’s publishers reportedly cited platform-related restrictions as the reason the complete replacement had not yet been done.
Despite this, ZAM said an edited version is now available and strongly recommended that television stations begin playing the revised version, which no longer contains the contentious scenes.
ZAM described the blurring of the controversial content as a constructive response and a gesture of responsibility from Yo Maps, adding that it provides a basis for continued dialogue between artistes and stakeholders. However, the Association stressed that it still expects a complete replacement with the fully edited version once the platform challenges are resolved.
The Association emphasized that its mandate is to support, protect, and guide artistes, stating that it does not oppose creative expression but remains committed to ensuring that artistic works reflect Zambia’s cultural, Christian, and family values.
ZAM said the “Budget” video controversy has offered important lessons to the industry, including the need for accountability, respectful engagement, and balancing artistic freedom with responsibility. It noted that while artistes are free to express themselves creatively, they must also remain mindful of the social impact of content that is accessed by homes, schools, churches, and the wider national audience.
The Association further stated that the recent developments have highlighted the need for clearer standards within the industry. ZAM announced that going forward it will strengthen internal systems, circulate its code of conduct to members, improve engagement, and provide clearer guidance on content that may conflict with national values.
ZAM also commended the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) for issuing guidance on May 6, 2026 to broadcasters regarding content alignment with Zambia’s cultural expectations. Additionally, the Association called on the Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) and other regulators to enhance monitoring and provide clearer guidance on digital and online content standards.
ZAM reaffirmed that it remains open to dialogue with Yo Maps, his management, and all artistes, acknowledging his significant contribution to the Zambian music industry and the pride his work brings to many fans. At the same time, it encouraged all practitioners to embrace correction where necessary, respect industry structures, and uphold the moral expectations of the society they influence.
The Association concluded by stating that this moment should not be used to divide the music industry but rather to build unity. ZAM said it will intensify engagement with artistes, managers, producers, publishers, broadcasters, regulators, churches, and other stakeholders in order to promote a music sector that is creative, responsible, united, and respected.
ZAM also expressed appreciation 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 during the engagement process.
The statement was issued by the National Executive Committee of the Zambia Association of Musicians.
