JUST when we thought things couldn’t get any spicer between Yo Maps and Chile one, internationally acclaimed hitmaker has thrown a curveball that no one saw coming, revealing his intentions to sponsor two categories at the upcoming 2025 Kwacha Music Awards.
Yesterday through his record label, Yo Maps shocked fans by announcing his withdrawal from competing in the 2025 Kwacha Music Awards, citing his desire to participate as a sponsor instead.
Yo Maps proposed sponsoring the Best Upcoming Artist from Central Province as well as the Best Male Artist category.
This was followed by a statement from Chile One, voicing his discomfort over the idea of an active artiste sponsoring the awards and calling it a move that could easily be taken as disrespectful.
“We would truly appreciate it if you continued to uphold the standards and practices you’ve always followed. Being recognised through awards doesn’t mean we’re desperate for validation Tatwapaya Saana. We do this not for money, but out of love and passion for the music. More importantly, it’s one of the few ways we feel appreciated and connected with our fans,” he said.
He added that sponsorship is something all can contribute to, but fairness and integrity should always come first.
But while the internet ate popcorn, the Zambia Association of Musicians (ZAM) stepped in, serious and swift, clarifying that no active musician is permitted to sponsor an award ceremony or any of its categories.
In a statement, ZAM boldly stated that it respects Yo Maps’ decision to withdraw his nominations, recognising his artistic freedom.
However, the association emphasised that active musicians are not permitted to sponsor the awards or any of its categories, as this could affect the integrity and impartiality of the event.
“While we appreciate the kind gesture by Olio’s Records management and ZAM member Yo Maps, we encourage them to consider alternative initiatives that can benefit the industry,” ZAM stated in a statement.
The association suggested that the record label should instead contribute to the industry by funding studio time for emerging artists, supporting collaborations between new and established artistes, funding music videos for upcoming artists and organising masterclasses for new artists on music business lessons.
ZAM also encouraged the Kwacha Music Awards committee to continue partnering with corporate entities that have been sponsoring the awards since 2017.
“This will promote fairness and maintain trust in the legitimacy of the awards. Accepting sponsorship from interested parties, particularly active artists, may lead to conflicts of interest and public suspicion of future biases towards such artists and those connected to them,” read the caption.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba September 14, 2025
