As the highly anticipated movie award event kicks off, the ninth edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, will commence on Thursday with an “Opening Night and Cultural Day” ceremony.

With that, the series of events leading up to the award night, which is set to take place on Saturday officially begins.

Busola Tejumola, Executive Head of Content and West Africa Channels at MultiChoice Nigeria, noted in a statement that this year’s AMVCAs is focused on raising the bar when it comes to recognising and rewarding talents in the various facets of the African film and television industry.

“Last year, we had an eight-day line-up of activities leading to the award night. This year will be no different. We have decided to sustain the momentum by bringing back all the activities. The only difference is that they will all take place within three days,” she said.

Tejumola emphasised that the three-day event will begin on May 18 with the ‘Runway Show and Nominee Gala’, during the ‘Opening Night and Cultural Day’ event, which is a celebration of African culture and diversity.

“In this year’s runway competition, the winners stand the chance to walk away with cash prizes and the opportunity to work with Pepsi, one of the brands they are set to create innovative designs for on the runway. The celebration will climax with the award night on May 20.”

The forthcoming award event will see various talents awarded and recognized for their handwork.