Clarification on Yo Maps’s Intention to Sponsor the 2025 Kwacha Music Awards
The Zambia Association of Musicians (ZAM) would like to provide clarification regarding the announcement made by Olio’s Records on Facebook about Yo Maps withdrawing from the 2025 Kwacha Music Awards to participate as a sponsor instead.
ZAM respects Yo Maps’s choice to withdraw his nomination(s), recognizing it as part of his artistic freedom. However, we wish to highlight that an active musician cannot act as a sponsor for the awards or any specific category, as this could compromise the impartiality and credibility of the event.
While we appreciate the generous intention of Olio’s Records and Yo Maps, we encourage them to explore alternative ways to support the music industry, such as:
- Sponsoring studio sessions for up-and-coming artists
- Supporting collaborations between emerging and established musicians
- Funding music videos for new talent
- Hosting masterclasses on music business and industry knowledge
ZAM also recommends that the Kwacha Music Awards committee continue working with corporate sponsors who have been supporting the awards since 2017. This approach ensures fairness and maintains public trust. Allowing active artists to sponsor the awards could create conflicts of interest and raise concerns about favoritism.
ZAM remains dedicated to fostering a transparent, professional, and thriving music industry in Zambia.
ZAM – United with One Voice
