Kenya International Theatre Festival (KITFest) is celebrating its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of creativity, cultural exchange, and artistic excellence.
The milestone edition which debuted on 4th November is expected to run until 16th November 2025.
What started in 2016 as a modest, single-venue event has grown into one of the region’s most significant cultural showcases.
Over the years, KITFest has evolved into a 13-day celebration featuring 54 productions from 18 countries, staged across 10 different venues in Nairobi.
From the Kenya National Theatre to Goethe-Institut, Alliance Française, Woodcreek, and Artzone Studios, the festival has spread its creative energy across the city, uniting communities through performance and storytelling.
Festival Director Benson Ngobia says “Ten years ago, we lit a small stage light a flicker of hope for theatre in Kenya. Today, that light has become a blazing spotlight shining across continents.”
KITfest’s program includes a range of educational workshops, international exchange sessions, street theatre experiences, and themed cultural nights that bring together music, dance, and fashion from around the world.
This year’s lineup features events such as Nganya Night, Amapiano Night, Throwback Night, Chinese Night, Dance Night, and French Night.
For young and emerging artists, KITFest continues to play a vital role in nurturing new talent.
Initiatives such as Kids Fiesta, Play Lab, and Monologue Champions give children and youth a chance to learn, perform, and connect with mentors in the industry.
Alongside this, poetry readings and visual art exhibitions have added a new layer of artistic depth, turning the festival into a truly holistic celebration of creativity.
“This festival isn’t just about entertainment it’s about education, exchange, and empowerment,” Ngobia emphasised, underlining KITFest’s commitment to growth within the creative industry.
This year’s edition also honours two figures who have left a mark on Kenyan theatre
Ms. Lorna Lemi, acclaimed for her powerful performances in productions such as Sarafina and Antigone, serves as KITFest Ambassador 2025.
The Face of KITFest 2025 is the legendary Professor Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, whose contributions to theatre and literature have shaped cultural discourse both in Kenya and internationally.
Behind KITFest’s success is a strong partnership between the Kenya International Theatre Festival Trust and the Kenya Cultural Centre.
Together, they have built a platform that not only showcases talent but also strengthens the creative economy.
According to Kenya Cultural Centre Chief Executive Officer Michael Pundo, the festival has become an essential part of the country’s artistic development. “KITFest embodies our commitment to transforming talent into sustainable livelihoods, safeguarding artists’ rights, and strengthening Kenya’s creative economy as a pillar of national development,” he said.