Africa Magic has announced the return of the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), with the ceremony scheduled to hold on Saturday, May 9, 2026.
The announcement was made during a press conference on Thursday, 26 March, at the MultiChoice Studio in Ilupeju, Lagos, where organisers outlined plans for what is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most prestigious entertainment events.
Organisers say the award, which had its inception in 2013, has generated over 30,000 jobs across the creative industry, spanning areas such as production design, screenwriting and sound engineering.
For the 2026 edition, the organisers have introduced new categories aimed at widening continental representation.
These include Best Indigenous Language, North Africa and Best Indigenous Language, Central Africa, further expanding the platform for diverse African storytelling.
A total of 32 categories will be featured at this year’s ceremony. Of these, 18 will be decided by a jury, 11 will be open to public voting, while three will be dedicated to special recognition awards, including Lifetime Achievement and Trailblazer honours.
Veteran actress Joke Silva has been appointed Head Judge for this year’s awards, bringing her extensive experience in the film and television industry to the role.
Speaking at the event, Executive Head of Content and Channels at MultiChoice West Africa, Atinuke Babatunde, emphasised the broader vision behind the awards.
“Beyond the lights, the red carpet, and the applause, there is a deeper story — one of craftsmanship. The writers, the directors, the editors, the designers, the technicians, the many hands and minds that shape the stories we love. This year, we are being as intentional as we’ve always been about recognising that ecosystem of excellence,” she said.
Ahead of the main event, nominations for the 2026 edition will be unveiled on Sunday, 29 March, during a live broadcast on Africa Magic channels at 7pm. The announcement will be hosted by AMVCA-winning actor Chimezie Imo.
The announcement was made during a press conference on Thursday, 26 March, at the MultiChoice Studio in Ilupeju, Lagos, where organisers outlined plans for what is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most prestigious entertainment events.
Since its inception in 2013, the AMVCA has grown significantly, not only in profile but also in economic impact. Organisers say the awards have generated over 30,000 jobs across the creative industry, spanning areas such as production design, screenwriting and sound engineering, underscoring its contribution beyond the glamour of the red carpet.
For the 2026 edition, the organisers have introduced new categories aimed at broadening continental representation. These include Best Indigenous Language, North Africa and Best Indigenous Language, Central Africa, further expanding the platform for diverse African storytelling.
A total of 32 categories will be featured at this year’s ceremony. Of these, 18 will be decided by a jury, 11 will be open to public voting, while three will be dedicated to special recognition awards, including Lifetime Achievement and Trailblazer honours.
Veteran actress Joke Silva has been appointed Head Judge for this year’s awards, bringing her extensive experience in the film and television industry to the role.
Speaking at the event, Executive Head of Content and Channels at MultiChoice West Africa, Atinuke Babatunde, emphasised the broader vision behind the awards.
“Beyond the lights, the red carpet, and the applause, there is a deeper story — one of craftsmanship. The writers, the directors, the editors, the designers, the technicians, the many hands and minds that shape the stories we love. This year, we are being as intentional as we’ve always been about recognising that ecosystem of excellence,” she said.
Ahead of the main event, nominations for the 2026 edition will be unveiled on Sunday, 29 March, during a live broadcast on Africa Magic channels at 7pm. The announcement will be hosted by AMVCA-winning actor Chimezie Imo.