The National Academy Media Awards (NAMA) 2026 is Zambia’s premier platform celebrating excellence in film, broadcasting, and digital media. Organized by the National Association of Media Arts, NAMA recognizes outstanding storytelling, technical achievement, and innovation across the country’s rapidly growing creative industry.

For the first time, NAMA will serve as the Official Opening Night of the Africa Creative Market, positioning the event at the center of global creative exchange. This unique platform brings together filmmakers, content creators, broadcasters, distributors, and international buyers, offering unmatched visibility and networking opportunities.

The event features a red carpet gala, live awards ceremony across 25+ categories, and film screenings of nominated works, all amplified through pan-African broadcast and global digital streaming.

Beyond recognition, NAMA aims to showcase Zambia’s stories, culture, and creative potential to the world—while positioning the country as a hub for investment in the creative industries. With millions of viewers across Africa and the diaspora, NAMA is more than an awards show—it is a movement elevating African storytelling to global standards.

Winners at the National Academy Media Awards receive more than just recognition—they gain industry credibility, visibility, and access to new opportunities.

Awards include:

Official NAMA Award Trophy presented at the live ceremony
Industry recognition from leading filmmakers, broadcasters, and media professionals
Pan-African and global exposure through broadcast and digital platforms
Screening opportunities for selected and winning films to international audiences and buyers
Media coverage and publicity across TV, online platforms, and press outlets
Networking access to international delegates, distributors, and partners at the Africa Creative Market
Career advancement opportunities through industry connections and partnerships

Winning a NAMA Award signifies excellence, as all entries go through a multi-stage, independently judged and audited process, ensuring credibility and fairness.

Open to filmmakers and creators from Zambia and the African diaspora.
Films must be completed between 2024–2026 and include English subtitles if not in English.
All entries must be submitted via FilmFreeway with a valid online screener.
Multiple submissions are allowed, but each requires a separate entry.
Submissions go through a multi-stage judging process (screening, jury review, and auditing), and all decisions are final.
Judging is based on creativity, technical quality, and overall impact.
Key dates:
Deadline: May 10, 2026
Nominees: June 1, 2026
Awards Ceremony: June 29, 2026
Entrants must own all rights to their work. Selected films may be screened and used for promotional purposes.
Winners receive official recognition at the NAMA Awards; awards are earned through a fair, audited process.
Entries may be disqualified for copyright violations, false information, or non-compliance.