Veteran Nollywood actress Joke Silva has been appointed Head Judge for the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), scheduled to take place on May 9, 2026.
The announcement was made during a press briefing held on March 26 at the MultiChoice studio in Ilupeju, Lagos, setting the tone for what organisers describe as a landmark edition of the awards.
Organised by Africa Magic in partnership with MultiChoice, the AMVCA continues to celebrate excellence in African film and television while spotlighting the contributions of creatives across the industry.
Speaking at the briefing, Atinuke Babatunde, Executive Head of Content and Channels at MultiChoice West Africa, emphasised the importance of recognising the full spectrum of talent behind film productions. She noted that the awards go beyond glamour to honour the craftsmanship of writers, directors, editors, designers, and other professionals shaping African storytelling.
As part of efforts to strengthen its continental reach, the 2026 edition will introduce new categories, including Best Indigenous Language – North Africa and Best Indigenous Language – Central Africa. The move is aimed at promoting inclusivity and showcasing Africa’s linguistic and cultural diversity on a broader stage.
This year’s awards will feature a total of 32 categories, comprising 18 jury-decided awards, 11 determined by public voting, and three special honours recognising lifetime achievement and emerging talents.
The organisers also confirmed that nominations will be unveiled on March 29, 2026, during a live broadcast on Africa Magic channels, hosted by AMVCA-winning actor Chiemezie Imo.
Since its launch in 2013, the AMVCA has grown into a major platform for Africa’s creative industry, contributing to job creation and economic activity across multiple sectors. The awards have supported thousands of professionals, from filmmakers to technical crews, while elevating African stories to global audiences.
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