Africa Choice Awards is returning for its seventh edition in Pretoria. The 2026 program will celebrate the achievements of leading African and international talents, including figures such as Femi Kuti, Mohamed Ramadan, and Connie Ferguson.
The ceremony will take place on November 1st, Sunday, at the South African State Theatre in Pretoria. This year's theme is 'The Culture Reigns,' centering the celebration on African creativity and cultural exchange.
Although Africa Choice Awards recognizes successes in entertainment and creative industries, organizers plan for this current event to go beyond a traditional awards ceremony. It is envisioned as a platform where culture, business, and diplomacy can intersect.
This will provide opportunities for African entrepreneurs, investors, creative workers, tourism stakeholders, diplomatic missions, and other industry participants to network and explore cross-border collaborations.
The theme is supported by platforms such as 'Creative Next Generation' and 'From Creation to Celebration,' reflecting a focus on the individuals shaping Africa's creative landscape in music, film, television, fashion, art, media, design, and storytelling.
Organizers are also focusing on strengthening ties between African communities, especially amid ongoing discussions about xenophobia and relations between African nations in the news.
The main message for 2026 is: 'Africa, come meet Africa in South Africa.' According to the organizers, the event aims to use culture as a bridge for better mutual understanding while creating opportunities for collaboration in areas such as entertainment, tourism, technology, fashion, media, and the broader creative economy.
Music and entertainment remain central elements of the event. Among the personalities associated with this year's program are Nigerian music legend Femi Kuti, Egyptian actor Mohamed Ramadan, and South African actress and producer Connie Ferguson.
The list of nominees also demonstrates the continental reach of the awards, including talents from South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Cameroon across various categories.
Among the South African names represented at the ceremony are Milali Ndamese, Bonang Mateba, Nomzamo Mbata, Tuso Mbedu, Siya Kolisi, Shudufhadzo Musida, Thando Tabete, and DJ Sbu, alongside a number of emerging and established African creatives.
According to Puni Modiboa, Managing Director of Mmina Tshipi Integrated Marketing Communications and licensor of Africa Choice Awards South Africa, this theme reflects the broader influence of African culture. She stated that 'The Culture Reigns' is a statement of Africa's strength. In her words, the awards are intended to be a meeting point where culture meets business, and creativity meets investment, encouraging Africans to build relationships beyond national borders.