The Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards (AMVCA) is set to return for its 12th edition on 9 May 2026, with a focus on celebrating African storytelling and its economic impact. The awards have grown into a major platform for recognising creative talent behind film and television productions, generating over 30,000 jobs across various sectors. Organisers unveiled new categories and a wider continental focus at a press conference held at the MultiChoice Studio in Ilupeju, Lagos. The event marked one of the most significant editions of the awards to date, with a total of 32 award categories.
A major highlight of the 2026 edition is the expansion of its category list to reflect a stronger pan-African identity. Two new categories, Best Indigenous Language North Africa and Best Indigenous Language Central Africa, have been introduced, marking a step towards cultural representation across the continent. The awards aim to celebrate Africa's diversity through storytelling, recognising the full spectrum of creative talent behind film and television productions.
The appointment of veteran Nollywood actress Joke Silva as Head Judge for the 2026 edition brings decades of industry experience to the role. Ahead of the main ceremony, organisers revealed that the nominees for the 12th edition will be announced on Sunday, 29 March 2026.
The appointment of Joke Silva as Head Judge for the 12th edition of the AMVCA is a significant move, given her extensive experience in the industry. However, the real question is whether the awards will live up to their promise of celebrating African storytelling and its economic impact. With a focus on cultural representation and diversity, the awards must ensure that they are not just a platform for the elite, but also for emerging talent. The introduction of new categories and a wider continental focus is a step in the right direction, but it remains to be seen whether the awards will truly reflect the richness and authenticity of African culture.
