FLASHBACK: Yvonne Okoro flanked by Ken Attoh and Shirley Frimpong Manso on 2014 AMVCAs stage
Ghana’s film industry failed to make an impact at the 2026 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCAs), as Nigerian productions and actors dominated the prestigious continental event held in Lagos, Nigeria, on Saturday.
The annual awards ceremony, which celebrates excellence in African film and television, saw several Nigerian movies and entertainers take home top honours across major categories.
For years, Ghanaian films and actors remained strong contenders at the AMVCAs, recording notable nominations and wins that boosted the country’s reputation within the African film industry.
In 2014, actress and producer Yvonne Okoro scored a major achievement when her movie, ‘The Contract’ won Best Movie (Comedy), while filmmaker Shirley Frimpong-Manso won Best Director.
A year earlier, actress, Jackie Appiah, won Best Actress in a Comedy for her role in ‘Cheaters’.
In 2017, Yvonne Okoro’s movie, ‘Ghana Must Go’ earned six nominations, one of Ghana’s highest at the time. The film received nominations including Best Director for Frank Rajah, Best Actor in a Lead Role for Blossom Chukwujekwu, and supporting role nominations for Nkem Owoh and Kofi Adjorlolo.
The following year, Shirley Frimpong-Manso’s ‘Potato Potahto’ also received five nominations, including Best Movie in West Africa. Actress, Lydia Forson won Best Supporting Actress for her role in Isoken, while Adjetey Anang won Best Actor in a Lead Role for ‘Keteke’ at the AMVCAs.
In 2020, actress, Gloria Osei Sarfo, was Ghana’s sole nominee and won the Best Supporting Actress category.
It, however, appears Ghana’s influence at the award is gradually changing with this year being a typical example.
Industry observers believe the downturn in film production and investment may be the reason for Ghana’s lack of competitiveness at the major international award scheme.
The development is also expected to bring discussions among stakeholders about the challenges confronting the local movie industry, including funding, production quality, marketing and distribution.
The AMVCAs, organised annually by MultiChoice, remain one of Africa’s biggest award platforms, recognising excellence in acting, directing, production and storytelling across the continent.