EWA AT 5: Entertainment Week Africa Unveils Expanded Pan-African Edition for 2026

What the report says

Google9ja reported in a July 18, 2026 post that Entertainment Week Africa is preparing an expanded fifth-anniversary edition under the theme “Five Years of Closing the Gap.” The 2026 event is billed as a broader pan-African gathering for the creative economy, with Lagos named as the host city and the programme expected in November, although the supplied article text cuts off before giving full schedule details.

According to the report, the anniversary edition is targeting participation from more than 18 African countries, with programming and delegations linked to Kenya, Rwanda, Ghana, Senegal, Uganda, Tanzania, South Africa and others. Organizers expect a significant share of attendees to travel from outside Nigeria. The event’s seven content tracks are listed as Film & TV, Music, Fashion & Beauty, AI & Tech, Live Events & Production, Creative Enterprise, and a new Art & Animation track.

The report also says EWA 2026 will host the world premiere of “University of Side Hustle,” described as the first scripted feature from Livespot Studios. Google9ja presents the move as part of EWA’s evolution from a cultural convening into a business-focused marketplace for African entertainment and creative industries.

For context, the article cites EWA’s growth across its first four editions, including more than 67,800 cumulative attendees, 28,683 pass-holders in 2025, and large digital engagement figures. It also points to the 2025 Deal Room, where entries were reviewed, some companies entered an accelerator, and several reportedly drew investor interest.