The nominees for the 2021 African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) were officially announced today, with West African films securing a majority of nominations in key categories. Celebrating excellence in African cinema, the AMAAs have once again highlighted the growing influence and creativity of filmmakers from Nigeria, Ghana, and other West African nations.

Among the top contenders, Nigeria’s The Milkmaid, directed by Desmond Ovbiagele, leads the pack with multiple nominations, including Best Film and Best Director. The film, which tells the story of insurgency and survival in Northern Nigeria, has already garnered critical acclaim for its storytelling and powerful performances. Other strong contenders include The Fisherman’s Diary from Cameroon and Dare to Dream from Ghana, both of which are vying for top honors.

West African Films Dominate Major Categories

Best Film: West African films feature prominently in the Best Film category, with titles such as The Milkmaid (Nigeria), This Is My Desire (Nigeria), and The Fisherman’s Diary (Cameroon) leading the nominations. These films, known for their unique narratives and high production quality, reflect the region’s storytelling prowess.

Best Director: Desmond Ovbiagele (The Milkmaid) and Shirley Frimpong-Manso (Dare to Dream) are among the nominees for Best Director. Both directors have been recognized for their exceptional work in bringing authentic African stories to the big screen.

Best Actress/Actor: Nigerian and Ghanaian actors dominate the performance categories, with Funke Akindele (Omo Ghetto: The Saga) and Lydia Forson (Dare to Dream) nominated for Best Actress. In the Best Actor category, Kunle Remi (The Fisherman’s Diary) and Majid Michel (Beneath the Clouds) stand out.

Recognition for West African Cinema

The 2021 AMAA nominations highlight the increasing visibility of West African cinema on the global stage. Filmmakers from the region have consistently produced films that showcase the diversity of African cultures, addressing social, political, and historical themes. This year’s nominations are a testament to the continued growth and influence of the region’s film industry.

Peace Anyiam-Osigwe, founder of the African Movie Academy Awards, praised the quality of submissions this year, noting that West African filmmakers continue to push boundaries and set new standards in African cinema. “We are proud to see West African films taking the lead, as they represent the heart of African storytelling,” she said during the nomination announcement.

Outlook for the AMAA 2021 Awards

The African Movie Academy Awards ceremony is set to take place later this year, with the winners being revealed at a high-profile event. Industry experts anticipate a competitive awards season, as the strong slate of West African films is expected to dominate many of the top categories.

As the AMAA celebrates its 17th edition, the awards continue to provide a platform for African filmmakers to gain recognition on a global level. West Africa’s strong showing in this year’s nominations underscores the region’s important role in shaping the future of African cinema.