The Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) 12 has officially opened submissions, signalling the start of another major awards season for African film and television.
Organised by Africa Magic in partnership with MultiChoice, the annual awards celebrate outstanding achievements by filmmakers, actors, and technicians across Africa and the diaspora.
Submissions opened on January 11, 2026, and will close on February 15, 2026, giving creators a limited window to submit eligible works for consideration.
A Bigger Platform for African Cinema
The AMVCAs have become one of the most influential platforms for African storytelling, recognising excellence in film, television, and digital content.
From blockbuster cinema releases to streaming originals and short-form productions, the awards spotlight projects that defined the African screen landscape in 2025.
Eligible entries must have been produced and publicly screened or broadcast between January 1 and December 31, 2025, across cinemas, linear television, or streaming platforms.
New Categories, Wider Representation
In a move that strengthens its Pan-African focus, AMVCA 12 introduces new Indigenous Language categories, expanding representation across the continent:
- Best Indigenous Language – North Africa
- Best Indigenous Language – Central Africa
These additions highlight the awards’ commitment to celebrating Africa’s linguistic diversity and ensuring regional voices are fully represented on a continental stage.
This year’s ceremony will feature 32 award categories, including:
- 18 jury-decided categories
- 11 audience-voted categories
- 2 Lifetime Achievement Awards
- 1 Trailblazer Award
Who Can Submit and How
Entries may be submitted by filmmakers, producers, production companies, distributors, or authorised representatives.
Indigenous language films are welcome but must be subtitled in English.
All submissions must be completed online via the official AMVCA portal: www.africamagic.tv/AMVCA
Each entry requires a full preview copy uploaded exactly as it was screened or broadcast, alongside complete cast and crew credits.
Judging, Voting, and the Grand Night
The judging process will take place in two rounds, overseen by an Executive Judge and selected industry professionals. Shortlisted nominees will move on to audience voting for select categories, allowing viewers across Africa to have their say.
The winners will be announced live at the AMVCA 12 gala event in Lagos, Nigeria, in May 2026, a night known for its glamour, celebration, and spotlight on Africa’s finest screen talents.
For many creatives, an AMVCA nomination or win can be career-defining, opening doors to new audiences, partnerships, and global recognition.
More than an awards ceremony, the AMVCAs continue to serve as a cultural marker for African cinema’s growth and global relevance.
With submissions now open and new categories added, AMVCA 12 promises to be one of the most inclusive and competitive editions yet.
🎥 Are you submitting this year?
🎥 Which category do you think will be the most competitive?
🎥 Which 2025 film deserves a nomination already?
Drop your thoughts in the comments and tag a filmmaker who needs to see this before February 15, 2026.