Veteran Actress Joke Silva Appointed Head Judge for 12th AMVCA
Renowned actress Joke Silva has been named the Head Judge for the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards, scheduled to take place on May 9, 2026. Silva, with her extensive decades-long experience in the entertainment industry, will bring a wealth of expertise to this prestigious role, overseeing the judging process for one of Africa's most celebrated film and television awards.
Pre-Award Activities and Focus on Craftsmanship
In the lead-up to the main ceremony, the event will feature a series of pre-award activities, including an icons night and a cultural day, designed to celebrate African creativity and heritage. This year's edition places a strong emphasis on craftsmanship, highlighting the vital contributions of writers, directors, editors, designers, and technical professionals who form the backbone of African cinema. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to recognising the often-overlooked creative forces working behind the scenes to produce compelling stories.
Sponsorship and Partnership Details
The awards are sponsored by Don Julio, a luxury spirits brand, marking the first time such a brand has served as the headline sponsor for the AMVCA. Don Julio's involvement aligns with its "por amor" philosophy, which celebrates passion, dedication, and artistry. The partnership builds on recent engagements, such as The Don's Table event, where the brand honoured Nollywood talents for their excellence in storytelling. As the official spirits partner, Don Julio will enhance the AMVCA experience with curated brand moments, signature toasts, and immersive activations, blending luxury with cultural storytelling.
Executive Insights and Additional Support
Atinuke Babatunde, the Executive Head of Content and Channels at MultiChoice West Africa, emphasised that the AMVCAs continue to celebrate the richness of African storytelling. She noted how stories from cities like Lagos, Nairobi, Dakar, and Johannesburg reflect the continent's identity and its global connections, adding that the partnership with Don Julio represents a shared vision of excellence. Additional support for the event comes from brands like Johnnie Walker and Singleton. According to Segun Ogunleye, Head of Marketing for Africa Partner Markets at Diageo, this collaboration underscores a mutual commitment to celebrating cultural pride, craftsmanship, and premium experiences.
Award Categories and Nomination Announcement
The 12th edition of the AMVCA will feature a total of 32 award categories, comprising 18 jury-decided awards, 11 audience-voted categories, and three special honours for Lifetime Achievement and Trailblazer recognition. Nominees are set to be announced on March 29, 2026, during a live broadcast on Africa Magic channels, hosted by actor Chiemezie Imo. This structure ensures a balanced recognition of both industry expertise and audience preferences, further solidifying the awards' reputation as a premier event in African entertainment.
