When the open-period for voting on the 2012 Nickelodeon Kids Choice Awards commences on March 1, that network's African viewers– for the first time in the event's 25-year history– will be included in the process, reports Screen Africa.

No word on why viewers in Africa have been excluded up until this point (*side-eye*), but it's nice to know that they can now participate, since they do enjoy and support the network.

Superstar entertainer Will Smith will be handling hosting duties for the KCA this year, which will be held in Los Angeles on March 31.

Venus and Serena Williams are both nominated for Best Female Athlete; the Black Eyed Peas are nominated for Best Music Group; and Usher Raymond is nominated for Best Male Singer.