Cameroon has recorded a major breakthrough in African cinema after Mabanda, directed by Kang Quintus, won the Best Indigenous Language Film (Central Africa) category at the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards held at Eko Hotel and Suites on May 9, 2026.
The victory marks the first time a Cameroonian production has won an AMVCA award, signaling a significant moment for the country’s growing film industry on the continental stage.
The victory marks the first time a fully Cameroonian production – shot on Cameroonian soil with an entirely Cameroonian cast and crew – has clinched an AMVCA. Mabanda competed against Safou: A Gift From Nature and Golden Spoon.
READ: Africa: Cameroon Set to Host 5th International Tourism Fair in Limbe this December
This year’s edition introduced new regional indigenous language categories for North and Central Africa. Mabanda’s win specifically represents Cameroon’s English‑speaking region.
Cameroonian actress Nchini Sylvia‑bright Bi, who was part of the team that received the award in Lagos, shared her emotional reaction:
“My heart is full. I cannot begin to describe how happy I am to have lived this amazing moment, to have represented a film that has my whole heart and to have raised the Cameroonian flag so high. On behalf of the entire cast and crew of MABANDA, we want to thank each one of you for taking this so personally.”
Kang Quintus, the film’s producer and director, dedicated the award to every Cameroonian filmmaker who refused to give up. The win opens doors for Central African cinema on a continental stage.
