2026 AMAA Nominations: Slum Bomber, One Woman, One Bra & To Adaego With Love Lead the Pack

The first light of a Lagos afternoon seeped through the high‑rise windows of the Marriott, painting the lobby in amber. Inside, a handful of film crews were already humming in anticipation, their phones poised to capture the live stream that would announce the 22nd Africa Movie Academy Awards nominees. Among them, Nwamaka Chikezie stood quietly, her hands folded, eyes fixed on the screen that would soon flash the names of her own film, To Adaego With Love, in bold letters. The moment felt both personal and historic: a Nigerian story, a continent’s recognition, and a woman’s triumph in a male‑dominated industry.

When the numbers dropped, it was clear that the nominations were a continental affair. Slum Bomber from Uganda and One Woman, One Bra from Kenya each snagged 14 nominations, the highest tally on the list. Their success signals a growing appetite for narratives that confront social realities head‑on, whether it is the gritty streets of Kampala or the cultural taboos in Nairobi. The films’ dual recognition underscores the AMAA’s expanding reach beyond the traditional Nigerian‑centric focus, inviting a richer tapestry of African voices.

Following closely, To Adaego With Love earned 11 nominations, positioning it as the leading Nigerian contender. The film’s director, Nwamaka Chikezie, also secured a nomination for Best Director, highlighting her dual role as storyteller and visionary. The narrative, which follows a woman’s journey through love, loss, and resilience, resonates with audiences across the continent, reflecting shared themes of family, faith, and female agency.

South Africa’s The Trek and Ben Made It each claimed 10 nominations, while Côte d’Ivoire’s Colours of Exile matched that count. These entries illustrate the AMAA’s commitment to a pan‑African dialogue, where stories from the southern, western, and eastern corners of the continent are given equal footing. The presence of a Cameroonian film, Mabanda, with nine nominations, further diversifies the field, showcasing the continent’s cinematic breadth.

The nominees were revealed through a livestream on AMAA’s official YouTube channel, a decision that democratized access and allowed fans worldwide to witness the moment. Watching the screen, I felt a collective breath held by filmmakers, actors, and audiences alike. It reminded me that cinema is not merely entertainment; it is a shared pulse that connects disparate cultures through a common language of storytelling.

The ceremony will take place on 15 November 2026 at the Lagos Marriott Hotel. Here, the continent’s best will gather to celebrate achievements, exchange ideas, and forge new collaborations. The event promises to be a showcase of talent that transcends borders, offering a platform where African cinema can claim its rightful place on the global stage.

The nominations already hint at a shifting cinematic landscapeone where stories from Uganda, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and beyond are not just recognized but celebrated. As the awards draw nearer, the anticipation builds, and the hope that African narratives will continue to break barriers grows stronger. The 22nd AMAA is poised to be a milestone, not just for the winners, but for the entire continent’s creative community.