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John Sibi-Okumu, a towering figure in Kenya’s theater and arts scene, was Monday awarded a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the Cairo International Festival for Experimental Theatre.
Sibi-Okumu, affectionately known as “JSO” or “Mwalimu” among his peers, is renowned for his exceptional work as a stage actor, director, and playwright. His body of work spans decades and includes numerous productions that have shaped the cultural landscape in Kenya. “John Sibi-Okumu has participated in numerous productions as a director and consultant. As an actor in both film and television, he has received many local and continental awards,” read the citation in his honor.
This was not the first time the celebrated thespian was recognized on the international stage. Earlier this year, Sibi-Okumu received a similar accolade at the Carthage International Theatre Festival in Tunisia, further solidifying his status as a leading figure in the arts.
In 2022, he was awarded the Order of the Golden Warrior, one of Kenya’s highest civilian honors, following a petition calling on the government to acknowledge his contributions, particularly his performance in the acclaimed film The Constant Gardener. This recognition came after decades of accolades, including the 2015 Lifetime Achievement Award by the Sanaa Theatre Awards.
Beyond his achievements on stage and screen, Sibi-Okumu has also made a mark as a writer. In 2021, he published a collection of his plays, offering a profound exploration of Kenyan society. The compilation, which includes five stage plays—Role Play, Minister Karibu, Meetings, Kaggia, Elements, and a radio drama, Dinner at Her Excellency’s—has been praised for its insightful portrayal of Kenyan life and politics.
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