Official Call for Films

KIKAOO AWARDS

Incorporating Nairobi Film Festival 2026

"Where film history meets the future — honoring stories, people, and the planet."

Nov – Dec 2026
National Museums & Bomas of Kenya

Celebrating Excellence

The KIKAOO Awards celebrate excellence in film, storytelling, and creative expression, recognizing outstanding artists, filmmakers, and cultural contributors from Kenya and beyond.

Eligibility Periods

Main Film Category

Films produced from 2014 to 2026

Special Category: Old School Films

Films produced between 2001 – 2013

Celebrating legacy, heritage, and foundational African storytelling.

* Both categories are eligible for awards, screenings, and recognition.

Submission Windows & Fees

Early Bird

1 Feb – 30 April 2026

USD 25
Regular

1 May – 30 July 2026

USD 40
Late Entry

1 Aug – 30 Oct 2026

USD 55

Fees support screenings, jury processes, awards production, and creative development programs.

Categories

Recognizing diverse formats and impactful storytelling across the spectrum of film.

Film Categories
  • Feature Films
  • Short Films
  • Documentary Films
  • Student Films
  • Animation
  • Experimental & New Media
Special Focus
  • Social Justice & Human Rights
  • Climate & Environmental Films
  • Cultural Heritage & Indigenous Stories
  • Youth & Emerging Filmmakers
Award Categories
  • Best Feature Film
  • Best Short Film
  • Best Documentary
  • Best Director
  • Best Screenplay
  • Best Actor
  • Best Actress
  • Best Cinematography
  • Best Student Film
  • Best Old School Film (2001–2013)
  • Audience Choice Award
  • Emerging Filmmaker Award
  • Jury Special Mention

Festival Timeline

Official Selection

Announcement of films selected for competition and screening.

Invitations

Official invitations sent to nominees and special guests.

Public Voting

Audience voting period for People's Choice categories.

Grand Opening

Festival kick-off event.

KIKAOO Awards Gala Night

Bomas of Kenya

  • Red carpet
  • Live performances
  • Awards ceremony
  • Industry celebration

Heal the Future
Climate Action Day

As part of KIKAOO’s commitment to art with purpose, we invite all official guests to participate in our legacy program.

Sunday, 6 December 2026
  • Planting of 50,000 fruit and oil trees
  • Participation by filmmakers, artists & partners
  • City & cultural tour of Nairobi
  • Community engagement & environmental education
Climate Action

Organizers & Contact

Organized By

ArtWorld Institute

Email Us

artworldinstituteke@gmail.com

Location

Nairobi, Kenya