Court Orders Bukata’s Page to Be Taken Down: Yo Maps and Mwizukanji Told to Cooperate
In a highly publicized case involving musician Yo Maps and social media personality Mwizukanji, the Lusaka Magistrate Court has ruled that the Facebook page run under the name Bukata — the couple’s daughter — be taken down immediately unless both parents agree to keep it active.
The decision, made by Resident Magistrate Kawama Mwamfuli, adds a new chapter to the long-standing custody dispute between the celebrity parents, emphasizing the importance of protecting the minor’s privacy and welfare in the social media age.
⚖️ Court Ruling and Background
The case stems from Yo Maps’ application to vary a 2022 consent order, seeking primary custody of his daughter, Bukata. He argued that he had only seen her once in three years and raised concerns over her upbringing in Mwizukanji’s home, including a TikTok video in which the child allegedly used inappropriate language.
Mwizukanji, whose real name is Prudence Nakamba, opposed the motion, insisting that she never denied Yo Maps access to their child. She emphasized that Bukata lives in a stable, loving home with her and her siblings, receiving all the necessary care and affection.
👩⚖️ Magistrate’s Decision
After reviewing both sides, Magistrate Mwamfuli dismissed Yo Maps’ application for full custody, ruling that the child’s environment under her mother’s care is safe and supportive. The magistrate found that the TikTok incident alone was not enough evidence to suggest poor supervision or neglect.
However, the court also addressed the growing social media exposure of Bukata. Magistrate Mwamfuli ruled that:
“Any page currently being run by either party should be immediately taken down unless both parties consent to its continuation.”
Furthermore, any posting of the child’s image on social media must be jointly approved by both parents. The ruling also clarified that commercial use of Bukata’s image—such as endorsements or brand collaborations—will require mutual consent, with all proceeds placed in a trust fund for her future benefit.
💬 Social Media Reactions
The court ruling has sparked massive debate online, with fans divided on the issue. Many praised the decision as a progressive move protecting a child’s privacy, especially in a time when celebrity kids often face unwanted attention. Others, however, sympathized with Yo Maps, saying that limited access to his daughter might have prompted his frustration.
On X (formerly Twitter), one user commented:
“This is a good call by the court. Kids deserve their privacy — not everything is for the internet.”
Another wrote:
“Yo Maps just wants to be a present father. It’s sad how things got this far.”
📊 Broader Implications
This ruling sets a significant precedent in Zambia, highlighting how the courts are adapting to digital parenting challenges. It reinforces the idea that social media presence for minors must be handled with parental consent and responsibility.
Experts in family law also note that such judgments protect children from potential exploitation, bullying, and overexposure, ensuring that their image is used ethically and for their own benefit.
🔚 Conclusion
The Yo Maps–Mwizukanji custody saga continues to draw public attention, but the court’s latest decision underscores one key principle — the child’s welfare comes first. Whether or not Bukata’s Facebook page returns online, the ruling serves as a reminder that co-parenting in the digital era requires unity, respect, and maturity.
Fans and followers alike are now watching to see how both parents move forward — not as rivals, but as joint guardians of their daughter’s future.
