The Cultural Council of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Nairobi hosted the Award Ceremony of its Art Competition and Exhibition, an event that attracted more than 100 submissions from emerging and established artists across Kenya. Approximately 60 artworks were shortlisted for the exhibition, which ran throughout the week and drew steady public interest, including visits from diplomats, art enthusiasts, and students.

The closing ceremony, held at the Iranian Cultural Center, was attended by representatives from the Kenya Film Commission led by Mr. Collins Okoth, Director of Strategy and Planning; Ahlulbayt Assembly of Kenya; Bilal Muslim Mission; the Kenya Institute of Foreign Languages and Professional Studies; UNESCO; members of the press; local artists; and delegations from the University of Nairobi and Kenyatta University.

Dr. Mahdi Beiki, Cultural Counselor of the Embassy, expressed gratitude for the strong turnout and described the exhibition as a celebration of creativity and shared humanity. He stated that the theme, “Social Justice and Equality,” together with its sub-themes of peace, spirituality, justice, and coexistence, represented foundational values for harmonious societies. Dr. Beiki noted that the participating artworks demonstrated how art serves as a universal language capable of healing divisions, envisioning ideals, and inspiring dialogue.

In his address, the Chief Guest, Mr. Collins Okoth, who represented the CEO of the Kenya Film Commission (KFC) and noted that he had recently served as a panelist on the creative industry in Saudi Arabia, praised the Cultural Council of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran for organizing an exhibition that had attracted a remarkable number of artists. He stated that such initiatives were essential in nurturing talent and strengthening the broader creative sector.

Mr. Okoth explained that the Government of Kenya had initiated policy measures designed to reinforce the creative industry and align it with national development priorities. He emphasized that Kenya Vision 2030 positions the creative economy as a key driver of youth empowerment, job creation, and economic growth. According to him, the vision focuses on enhancing skills development, fostering innovation, establishing industry hubs, and improving film and arts infrastructure to make Kenya a globally competitive creative destination. He added that this national strategy reflects the wider ambition of transforming Kenya into a middle-income country with an improved quality of life.

The ceremony concluded with the awarding of prizes to the top three artists. First place went to Collins Murimi, who received KES 60,000; second place was awarded to Benson Hika Mwangi, who took home KES 40,000; and third place went to Patricia Githae who won 30000.