About the East Africa Comedy Awards 2026
"The Power of Laughter: Shaping Culture, Changing Lives"
The East Africa Comedy Awards is an annual celebration of the region's vibrant and diverse comedic talent, recognizing excellence across live performances, digital content, screen productions, and behind-the-scenes craftsmanship. From the bustling streets of Nairobi to the serene shores of Zanzibar, we shine a spotlight on artists who use wit to reflect, challenge, and unite communities.
Event Schedule 2026
Creatives Convention
A vibrant 3-day convention featuring workshops, panel discussions, networking sessions, and showcase performances designed to ignite collaboration and innovation.
Awards Gala Night
The prestigious awards ceremony celebrating 26 categories of comedic excellence, featuring red carpet arrivals, live performances, and unforgettable moments.
Why Attend the Awards
26 Award Categories
From stand-up excellence to online virality, celebrating every facet of comedic talent.
Regional Unity
Bringing together comedy from Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and beyond.
3-Day Convention
Workshops, panels, networking, and performances designed to ignite collaboration and innovation.
Global Recognition
Positioning East Africa as a powerhouse of authentic, culturally resonant humor worldwide.
Our Vision
To position East Africa as a global powerhouse of authentic, culturally resonant humour by honouring comedic excellence, amplifying diverse voices, and building a sustainable industry that entertains, educates, and unites communities across Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and beyond.
Our Objectives
Celebrate Diversity & Inclusion
Spotlighting underrepresented voices including women, youth, and regional dialects to foster a comedy landscape that mirrors East Africa's rich multicultural tapestry.
Nurture Emerging Talent
Providing platforms for newcomers through the convention and awards to accelerate careers and bridge the gap between grassroots creators and mainstream success.
Promote Industry Sustainability
Encouraging high production standards, cross-platform innovation, and social impact to create economic opportunities and professional development pathways.
Enhance Cultural & Global Reach
Amplifying East African stories through humor that challenges stereotypes, preserves traditions, and connects with international audiences.
Creatives Convention
A vibrant 3-day immersive experience designed to ignite collaboration and innovation in the region's comedy ecosystem.
Comedy Writing Workshops
Master the craft with industry experts
Digital Content Creation
Learn platform strategies and content optimization
Improv Techniques
Enhance spontaneity and audience engagement
Panel Discussions
Industry veterans share insights on monetizing humor
Networking Sessions
Connect with comedians, producers, and sponsors
Showcase Performances
Emerging talents test material before industry professionals
26 Award Categories
Celebrating excellence across every facet of comedy, from stage to screen to social media.
Overall Crowning Titles
King & Queen of Comedy
Stand-Up Excellence
Male, Female, Comedy Special
Screen Comedy
TV Show, Film, Sitcom
Online & Viral
Online Comedian, Skit Creator, Viral Video
Emerging Talent
Newcomers & Rising Stars
Writing & Production
Writer, Producer, Director
Specialty Categories
Character, Improv, Social Impact
Regional Impact
Legend, People's Choice, Podcast, Live Event
Our Judging Process
Expert Panel
Comedy experts, industry professionals, and cultural critics from across East Africa evaluate all entries.
100-Point System
Each entry is scored using a comprehensive 100-point system covering originality, impact, and technical excellence.
Comprehensive Review
Submissions include video clips, scripts, performance metrics, and peer testimonials for thorough evaluation.
Join Us in Celebrating Excellence
Be part of East Africa's premier comedy celebration. Secure your spot at the convention and gala night.