Theatre Icon John Sibi-Okumu receives lifetime achievement award 

John Sibi-Okumu, a distinguished stage actor, director, and playwright, has been recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Cairo International Festival for Experimental Theatre.

The honor celebrates his significant contributions to the theatre world, where his work has made a lasting impact.

In his acceptance speech, Sibi-Okumu expressed his gratitude for the recognition and reflected on his journey in the arts. “I am deeply honored to receive this award. It is a testament to the power of storytelling and the role that theatre plays in shaping society. I am thankful for the opportunities I’ve had to share stories that matter and for the incredible support from the artistic community and audiences alike,” he said.

Sibi-Okumu, who has been a vital force in the Kenyan arts scene, has graced the stage with his powerful performances and has been behind some of the most thought-provoking plays in the region. His work has not only entertained but also challenged societal norms, sparking conversations on critical issues such as identity, governance, and human rights.

In 2021, Sibi-Okumu expanded his literary footprint by publishing a collection of his plays. The compilation, which includes five stage plays and a radio drama, delves into various facets of Kenyan society.

The works—Role Play, Minister Karibu, Meetings, Kaggia, Elements, and Dinner at Her Excellency’s—have been brought together in a single volume, offering readers and theatre enthusiasts a comprehensive look at his artistic legacy.

In 2022, Sibi-Okumu was awarded the Order of the Golden Warrior, a prestigious honor following a public petition for the government to formally recognize his contributions to the arts. This recognition came in part due to his memorable role in the internationally acclaimed film The Constant Gardener.

Earlier this year, he was similarly honored at the Carthage International Theatre Festival in Tunisia.