Magistrate Grants Joint Custody: Bukata to Split Holidays with Yo Maps
Yo Maps Granted Joint Custody of Daughter Bukata
Zambian music sensation Yo Maps, real name Elton Mulenga, has won joint custody of his daughter, Bukata. The ruling was issued by Resident Magistrate Kawama Mwamfuli at the Lusaka Magistrate Court. After months of public attention, this decision allows Yo Maps to regain access to his daughter during school and public holidays.
Holiday and Birthday Arrangements
The court ruling grants Yo Maps the right to spend all school holidays, public holidays, and Bukata’s birthday with her. Magistrate Mwamfuli emphasized that both parents must jointly make decisions regarding Bukata’s education, health, religion, and overall welfare, ensuring cooperation and prioritizing the child’s best interests.
Background of the Case
The custody case arose after Yo Maps applied to vary a 2022 consent order, claiming he had been denied reasonable access to his daughter. The magistrate balanced parental responsibilities by granting primary physical custody to Bukata’s mother, Mwizukanji, while allowing the father liberal and reasonable visitation rights.
Weekend Access and Family Vacations
Under the new arrangement, Yo Maps will have fortnightly weekend access. He can pick up Bukata at 16:30hrs from school or her mother’s residence and return her by 15:30hrs before the next school day. The first visit is scheduled for October 24, 2025. Bukata may also attend family vacations with her father, as long as they don’t conflict with her school schedule.
Communication Rights
The court also approved regular and electronic communication between father and daughter. Mwizukanji must facilitate these interactions and provide privacy during conversations. Magistrate Mwamfuli stated the goal was to strengthen the father-daughter bond while ensuring the child’s stability.
“This is to enable the child to develop a stronger relationship with her father,” the magistrate explained.
Full Custody Request Denied
Yo Maps’ request for full custody was denied. The court found no evidence suggesting that Mwizukanji was unfit or that her home environment was unsafe. Both parents were reminded to provide a nurturing and emotionally stable environment for Bukata.
Duration and Cooperation
The joint custody arrangement will remain in effect until Bukata turns 18, unless significant changes affect her wellbeing. Both parents are required to cooperate fully and bear their own legal costs.
Significance of the Ruling
This ruling is a personal victory for Yo Maps and sets an example of co-parenting in Zambia, especially for high-profile figures. By emphasizing shared responsibility and emotional balance, the court highlighted the importance of both parents being actively involved in a child’s life.
