Yo Maps Won Best Male Artiste at the AFRIMA Awards (Read)
In January 2026, Zambian singer and producer Yo Maps (Elton Mulenga) achieved a historic milestone by winning Best Southern Africa Male Artist of the Year at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA). Held in Lagos, Nigeria, the ceremony recognized his continental influence, specifically highlighting the success of his hit song “Mr & Mrs“.
This victory marked Yo Maps as the first Zambian male artist and only the second Zambian overall—following Cleo Ice Queen’s 2021 win—to secure a prestigious AFRIMA trophy. He triumphed over a highly competitive field of regional heavyweights, including South Africa’s Nasty C, Kabza De Small, and Tyler ICU, as well as Zimbabwe’s Jah Prayzah.
During his acceptance, Yo Maps thanked his family and his 2.6 million followers, celebrating his transition from a national icon to the “King of Southern Africa“. Upon his return to Lusaka, he was greeted with a hero’s welcome at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport by the Zambia Association of Musicians and thousands of fans.
Capitalizing on his AFRIMA momentum, Yo Maps immediately shifted focus toward nurturing local talent. He announced his decision to withdraw from all future nominations at Zambia’s Kwacha Music Awards to participate as a sponsor instead, offering support and encouragement for rising artists in the Central Province and other regions of Zambia. This move cemented his role not just as a successful artist, but as a leader committed to the growth of the Zambian music ecosystem.
