Joke Silva emerges head judge as AMVCA returns for 12th edition
By Tunrayo Ilesanmi Sterling Nigerian actress Joke Silva has been announced as the Head Judge of the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) scheduled for Saturday,
By Tunrayo Ilesanmi
Sterling Nigerian actress Joke Silva has been announced as the Head Judge of the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards (AMVCA) scheduled for Saturday, May 9, 2026.
This was announced at a press briefing at the MultiChoice studio situated in Ilupeju, Lagos, on Thursday, March 26, 2026.
As the awards build towards its star-studded ceremony, Africa Magic has officially set the stage for one of the most anticipated editions rolling.
Atinuke Babatunde, Executive Head of Content and Channels, MultiChoice West Africa, reacting to the significance of the 12th edition, said, “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."
The 12th edition of the AMVCAs introduces key changes that deepen its pan-African reach and commitment to equitable representation. This year's edition expands its Indigenous Language categories with the introduction of Best Indigenous Language – North Africa and Best Indigenous Language – Central Africa, a landmark step in ensuring that Africa's diverse languages, regions, and creative voices are more fully celebrated on a continental stage.
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Speaking further, Babatunde said, “We are celebrating culture in all its richness and authenticity. From Lagos to Nairobi, from Dakar to Johannesburg, African stories continue to reflect who we are, how we live, and how we connect with the world.”
With this, the 12th AMVCA will feature 32 award categories in total, including 18 jury-decided categories and 11 public voting categories, alongside three special recognition awards for Lifetime Achievement and Trailblazer.
The 12th AMVCA is headlined by Don Julio as lead sponsor, while Guinness, Singleton, Onga, Johnnie Walker, Orijin, MTN, Smirnoff Ice, QuickTeller, Verve, Indomie, and Lush Hair join as co-sponsors.
The highly anticipated nominee announcement is slated for Sunday, 29 March 2026, airing live on Africa Magic channels from 7PM and hosted by AMVCA-winning actor Chiemezie Imo.
Since its inception in 2013, the AMVCAs have become a cornerstone of Africa's creative economy, fostering job creation, revenue generation, and industry growth. Over the past decade, the awards have invested significantly in events, training, and logistics, creating over 30,000 jobs across various sectors, benefiting professionals from production designers and screenwriters to sound engineers and artisans. Above all, it has remained a stage for stars and talent behind some of Africa's most celebrated films and television shows to shine their brightest, ensuring their work is seen, honoured, and remembered.
