Yo Maps Named AFRIMA Best Southern Africa Male Artist of the Year 2025
A Big Win for Zambia
Award-winning Zambian artiste Elton Mulenga, popularly known as Yo Maps, has started 2026 with massive celebration after winning the 2025 AFRIMA Best Southern Africa Male Artist of the Year award. The talented singer, known for hit songs like Blessings Follow Me and Ni Season Yanga, received the prestigious accolade in Lagos, Nigeria during the All Africa Music Awards ceremony.
This victory is not just personal success for Yo Maps but a proud moment for Zambia as a whole. His win shows that Zambian music continues to grow in influence across Africa and beyond. Fans across the country and region have celebrated the achievement as a sign that Zambian artists can compete at the highest international level.
Beating Africa’s Biggest Names
Yo Maps clinched the Best Southern Africa Male Artist gong after beating strong competition from some of the biggest names in African music. The category included stars like Nasty C, Tyler ICU, Kabza De Small, Anderson Mario, Jah Prayzah and others.
Winning against such heavyweight artists shows how powerful Yo Maps’ impact has become in the region. His music has crossed borders, gained millions of listeners, and connected with fans through emotional lyrics, strong vocals and relatable storytelling. This AFRIMA award confirms his place among Africa’s top artists.
Emotional Acceptance Speech
When receiving the award, Yo Maps greeted the cheering audience with “Salam aleikum,” setting a joyful and respectful tone before delivering his speech. He proudly represented Zambia and thanked God, his family, his management and his fans for their support.
“My name is Yo Maps, representing Zambia, one of the biggest artistes in Southern Africa. I just want to thank Almighty God for this, my family and my wife – I am married, by the way, with two kids,” he said.
He continued by thanking his management team and especially his fans, who he said have played a huge role in pushing his career to greater heights.
Thanking His Fans and Supporters
Yo Maps gave special thanks to his 2.6 million Facebook followers, saying their love and support have helped shape his success. He made it clear that without the fans, this victory would not have been possible.
After the awards, he celebrated online, writing:
“From being the King of Zambian music to the King of Southern Africa 👑🔥🦅. The journey keeps getting louder. Zambia kuchalo 🇿🇲💪. Thanks to everyone who made this possible, especially my fans. All praises to the Most High! 🙌🏾.”
His message showed confidence, gratitude and pride in representing Zambia on a big African stage.
Respect for Competition
Even while celebrating, Yo Maps did not forget his competitors. In his usual humorous style, the They Want Me Down producer jokingly said:
“Competition naine uzachita retire.”
The statement showed confidence in his talent while still acknowledging the strong competition he faced. It reflects the bold personality that fans have come to love — confident, hardworking, and unapologetically Zambian.
What This Win Means for Zambian Music
Yo Maps’ AFRIMA win is more than just a trophy. It is proof that Zambian artists can shine on international stages. His success opens doors for upcoming musicians and puts Zambia firmly on Africa’s music map.
From local hitmaker to continental award winner, Yo Maps’ journey shows what is possible with talent, discipline, faith, and strong fan support. As he continues to release music and grow his brand, many believe this is only the beginning of even greater achievements.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 AFRIMA Best Southern Africa Male Artist of the Year award is a historic moment for Yo Maps and for Zambia. It celebrates years of hard work, dedication, and consistent music that connects with people’s hearts.
As fans proudly say, Zambia is loud, Zambia is proud, and Zambian music is rising. Yo Maps has not only won an award — he has carried a nation with him onto the African stage.
