Who Makes More: International Footballers or Artists?

Zambian artist Yo Maps recently guest-starred on The Kenny T 1 on 1 Podcast, sharing insights about his journey in music. A notable highlight from his interview was his candidness about his financial situation, revealing he earns around $10,000 a month from royalties. His income also includes earnings from live performances, which can range from K80,000 to K160,000 for eight shows.

On the flip side, Zambia’s international football star Fashion Sakala Jr., who currently plays for Al Fayha FC in Saudi Arabia, hit headlines last year with a staggering contract worth $500,000 monthly. This amounts to about $125,000 weekly or around $6 million a year.

While Yo Maps’ earnings are significantly lower than Sakala’s, he actively gives back to his community. He’s known for elevating lesser-known artists by featuring them in his songs, providing meals for Zambian musicians during funerals, and supporting students in Lilayi through tough economic times.

Conversely, Fashion Sakala’s charitable initiatives reflect the scale of his income. He recently initiated a K1.6 million provincial football tournament in Eastern Province, has contributed to building schools and drilling boreholes in his hometown, and continues to assist the less fortunate with food and clothing.

Despite the substantial difference in their earnings, both individuals echo a shared commitment to their communities.