JIM IYKE MAKES AMAA DEBUT

African Film Academy Awards (AMAA) 2011 will no doubt take a different shape this year, and perhaps, spring a lot of surprises as the event moves to Kenya. Information reaching us at the moment reveals that Nollywood's bad boy, Jim Iyke, will be present at the event for the first time.

Sunday Sun also gathered that Nollywood actresses, Rita Dominic and Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, will headline the event in the East African country during the AMAA Nominations Night, which has been scheduled for February 25 at Laico Regency Hotel in Nairobi.

A-list stars such as Joke Silva, Kate Henshaw-Nuttal, Ramsey Naouh, Omotola, Rita, Jim Iyke, Mike Ezuruonye, Chinedu Ihedieze and Ini Edo are expected to grace the event.

The AMAA, which is without doubt becoming the most prestigious and glamorous African movie awards, considers movies in 24 categories, which include the Best Actor, Best Actress, Most Promising Actress, Most Promising Actor, Best Actress in Supporting Role, Best Actor in Supporting Role, Best Child Actor, Most Outstanding Costumes, Most Outstanding Cinematography, Most Outstanding Make-up, Most Outstanding Film Editor, and the Heart of Africa Awards.

Over the years the awards presentation had been attended by numerous international media representatives, Hollywood celebrities, Nigerian politicians, other African politicians, journalists, film industry professionals, actors and actresses from across Africa. According to organisers of AMAA, the primary aim of AMAA is to facilitate the development and showcase the social relevance of African films and cinemas.

The awards are presented to recognise and honour excellence in professionals in the African film industry, including directors, actors and writers, as well as to unite the African continent through arts and culture.

AMAA 2011 will be held in April 2011 and would be televised globally.