The stage is set for another celebration of African cinematic and television excellence as the call for entries for the 12th Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards (AMVCA) is officially open. Africa Magic, in strategic partnership with MultiChoice, announced the commencement of the submission window, inviting content creators from across the continent to showcase their best works from the past year.
Submission Window and Key Eligibility Criteria
The submission portal opened on January 11, 2026, and will remain active until February 15, 2026. This gives filmmakers and producers a five-week period to prepare and submit their entries. To qualify for consideration, all submitted works must have been publicly screened or broadcast between January 1 and December 31, 2025.
For feature-length films, the organisers have specified that the work must have been exhibited in cinemas, on television, or on recognised streaming platforms. All entries are to be submitted digitally through the official AMVCA portal, with full preview copies uploaded in the exact format in which they were originally broadcast or screened. Detailed eligibility rules and submission guidelines are available on the Africa Magic website for prospective entrants.
Expanded Award Categories and New Additions
The 2026 edition of the awards will be a grand affair featuring a total of 32 award categories. The structure maintains a balance between jury verdict and audience choice. Out of the 32 categories, 18 will be decided by a specially selected jury, while 11 will be left to the vote of the viewing public across Africa.
In a significant move to enhance inclusivity and regional representation, the organisers have introduced two new categories within the Indigenous Language section. The new awards are Best Indigenous Language – North Africa and Best Indigenous Language – Central Africa. This expansion is a deliberate effort to recognise and celebrate storytelling in a broader spectrum of African languages, moving beyond the traditionally dominant linguistic regions.
Beyond the competitive categories, the ceremony will also honour industry veterans with two Lifetime Achievement Awards and present one Trailblazer Award to an emerging innovator in the field.
Ceremony Details and Sponsorship
The prestigious awards ceremony is scheduled to hold in May 2026 in Lagos, Nigeria, continuing the event's tradition of being hosted in the nation's bustling entertainment capital. While specific dates and venue details are yet to be announced, the city is already abuzz with anticipation. The 12th edition of the AMVCA will be headlined by Don Julio as the lead sponsor, adding to the glamour and scale of the event.
The AMVCA continues to solidify its position as the most prestigious pan-African award for film and television, driving quality, recognition, and healthy competition within the continent's creative industries. Filmmakers are encouraged to review the guidelines and submit their eligible works promptly before the February deadline.
