Citizen TV awarded the Ushirika Award at this year's KITFest

The awards ceremony took place on 26th February 2026 at the Kenya National Theatre (KNT).

The recognition acknowledged the sustained promotion and publicity of local theatre productions over the years, helping amplify Kenyan plays, creatives and cultural storytelling to wider national audiences.

The Kenya International Theatre Festival (KITFest), Kenya's leading performing-arts and creative-industry platform, was organised by the Kenya International Theatre Festival Trust. 

The festival showcased Kenyan theatre to global audiences while hosting international productions in the country, bringing together performances, workshops, training and industry forums that develop talent, build audiences and grow the creative economy.

Within this ecosystem, the Ushirika Award recognises organisations that actively support the arts sector, including media houses, cultural institutions and partners that provide platforms for storytelling, visibility and opportunities for creatives.

Other categories presented during the event included the Lifetime Achievement Award, World Impact Award and Jury Awards. 

Other winners of the night included Daniel Mbugua, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to Kenyan art and four winners chosen in the Jury’s Special Award: Caroline Ngorobi, Martha Galavu, Masidza Galavu and Esther Kamba.

This year's ceremony was attended by the nominees and high-profile personalities, making it a key event for networking and showcasing excellence. 

The event also included a series of prestigious awards and entertainment, as well as opportunities to meet the nominees, winners, and distinguished guests.

Previous recipients of the Ushirika Award include the Kenya Cultural Centre, Alliance Française, Goethe-Institut and the HEVA Fund.