Actor, comedian and producer Nicholas Okwach Ouma, popularly known as Nick Kwach, has been named a national hero in the arts category of the National Heroes 2026 publication, in recognition of his contribution to Kenya’s performing arts industry.
The honour is featured in the publication prepared for Mashujaa Day on October 20, 2026, with the National Heroes Council citing Kwach’s work in theatre, acting, comedy and creative production.
According to the awards, Kwach produced nationally acclaimed performances, including Cost of Living and Otis Janam, through Crony Productions, helping strengthen Kenya’s theatre and screen arts.
He is among 31 individuals recognised in the arts category, the first of 14 categories featured in the publication. The category covers musicians, actors, dancers, visual artists and other cultural practitioners.
The National Heroes Council was established under the Kenya Heroes Act No. 5 of 2014. Its chief executive says the selection process involves public participation, nominations, evaluation and scrutiny.
Kwach has previously spoken about his early struggles in the industry, recalling how he began his acting career with a travelling theatre troupe that performed high-school set books in schools across western Kenya.
He has also recounted being paid with a plate of pilau after an early performance, an experience he described as part of the challenges he faced while breaking into the industry.
One of his notable projects is Otis Janam, a Luo-language film written and directed by Dr Zippy Okoth. Kwach plays Janam, a fisherman whose life changes after winning a boat-racing championship.
The film premiered at the Kalasha International Film and Television Market in March 2024 before being selected for the 27th Zanzibar International Film Festival in August of the same year.
Kwach won the festival jury’s Best Actor in East Africa award for his portrayal of Janam. In announcing the recognition on social media, he credited the film’s cast and crew for their contribution to the production.
Scripted in Dholuo with subtitles, Otis Janam explores themes including polygamy, alcoholism and sexism, according to Business Daily.
The Kenya Film Commission supported the production, while Sarah Masese plays Api, the lead female character opposite Kwach.