The NAACP Image Awards is expanding its celebration of Black excellence with 10 new categories dedicated to African creators, opening another door for filmmakers, actors, television professionals and recording artists across the continent to receive recognition on an international stage.
Announced October 21, the expansion will be part of the 58th NAACP Image Awards and recognize achievements in motion pictures, television and streaming, and recorded music. Eligible creators from all 55 African Union member states can submit qualifying work for consideration, marking a significant step in connecting African entertainment with the broader global Black diaspora.
The new categories reflect the growing international influence of African storytelling and music. From films and television series reaching audiences beyond their home countries to artists building global followings, African creators continue to contribute to conversations shaping contemporary entertainment. The new awards provide dedicated recognition for that work rather than relying solely on broader international categories.
The 10 new African categories span three entertainment disciplines.
In motion pictures, the awards will introduce Outstanding African Motion Picture, Outstanding Actor in an African Motion Picture, Outstanding Actress in an African Motion Picture and Outstanding Directing in an African Motion Picture.
Television and streaming will recognize Outstanding African Television Series, Outstanding Actor in an African Television Series and Outstanding Actress in an African Television Series.
The three recording categories are Outstanding African Album, Outstanding African New Artist and Outstanding African Song.
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