Yo Maps's Bid for Full Custody

Elton Mulenga seeks primary custody of daughter amid ongoing legal dispute.

Popular singer Elton Mulenga, known professionally as Yo Maps, has petitioned Lusaka Magistrates' Court for primary custody of his daughter, Bukata. 

The award-winning artist told the court he is prepared to raise Bukata alongside her half-sister in the home he shares with his wife, Kiddist Kiffle, emphasising his consistent commitment to the child's welfare.

"I have consistently taken responsibility for Bukata's well-being," Mulenga stated in court documents, adding that he has repeatedly requested time with his daughter during holidays, weekends, and special events, only to be refused by her mother, Prudence Nakamba, also known as Mwizukanji.

The musician submitted WhatsApp conversations as evidence to support his claims of being denied access to his child.

His wife, Kiddist Kiffle, provided testimony supporting her husband's application, telling the court he has been a responsible father. She confirmed that she assists in ensuring maintenance payments, school fees, and other child-related expenses are settled promptly.

The custody battle has taken an unexpected turn with the involvement of News Diggers managing editor Joseph Mwenda, whom Mulenga believes to be in a relationship with Nakamba based on conversations between the two men.

In court filings, Mulenga expressed concerns about the living arrangements, stating he believes Nakamba is cohabiting with Mwenda and four other children, creating what he describes as a crowded household of "at least seven children and two adults."

The legal dispute stems from a 2022 child support lawsuit filed by Nakamba, following which Mulenga has been regularly sending financial support for their daughter's upkeep. 

Despite complying with court orders regarding maintenance, Mulenga now seeks a variation of the previous arrangement, arguing that primary custody would better serve his daughter's interests.

"Bukata should be allowed to live with me, my wife, and their daughter Tendai in a safe and conducive environment," he submitted to the court.

The court is yet to make a determination on Mulenga's application for primary custody.