The 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards (AMVCA) has officially commenced, with nominees set to be announced on March 29, 2026. The event, headlined by Don Julio, a premium brand from Diageo, marks a significant milestone with the expansion of award categories to recognise Best Indigenous Language films in North and Central Africa.
This year's edition introduces notable changes, including the inclusion of 14 new award categories, bringing the total to 32. The awards will now feature 18 jury-decided categories and 11 public voting categories, alongside 3 special recognition awards for Lifetime Achievement and Trailblazer. The expansion is a result of the joint leadership of Canal+ and MultiChoice, who are taking a more inclusive approach to celebrating Africa's diverse languages, regions, and creative voices.
Veteran actress Joke Silva has been named Head Judge for the 12th AMVCA, bringing with her decades of experience in the industry. The event will also include key pre-award activities such as Icons Night and Cultural Day, leading up to the main ceremony.
The partnership between Diageo and the AMVCA marks a significant milestone in the history of the awards. Diageo's commitment to "unlocking culture" through its brands, including Don Julio, Malta Guinness, Smirnoff, and Orijin, is a testament to its dedication to showcasing African creativity and talent.
The 12th edition of the AMVCA is scheduled to hold on May 9, 2026.
The partnership between Diageo and the AMVCA is a welcome development, but it remains to be seen whether this will translate into tangible benefits for the creative industry. Joke Silva's appointment as Head Judge is a testament to her enduring influence in Nollywood. The expansion of award categories is a step in the right direction, but it is crucial that the AMVCA continues to prioritise the recognition of indigenous languages and regional diversity. As the AMVCA celebrates its 12th edition, it is essential that it continues to promote African creativity and talent, rather than simply catering to a global audience. The event's commitment to showcasing African stories and voices is commendable, but it is crucial that it also addresses the industry's systemic issues, such as funding and accessibility.
