In a groundbreaking collaboration, the Global Initiative for Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (GI-ESCR) partnered with the University of Nairobi's Center for Human Rights and Peace (UoN-CHRP) to bring forth an inspiring Arts Competition. Launched on 12 September 2023, the culmination of this initiative was marked by a vibrant public display of art on 17 November, 2023, followed by a prestigious Award Ceremony on 18 November 2023.  

The Award Ceremony event, emceed by Dr. Kathleen Anangwe, featured distinguished UoN dignitaries, including Dr. Patrick Nyabul, Chairman of Philosophy & Religious Studies and Jack A. Odhiambo, Dean of the Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences, who delivered the Vice Chancellor's official address. The university praised this innovative approach of encouraging students to contemplate public services and expressed hope for future collaborations on human rights initiatives.  

GI-ESCR's Deputy Director, José Antonio Guevara, and the Programme Officer on the Right to Education, Juana Barragán Díaz, extended heartfelt gratitude to the students for their diligent submissions and to the University of Nairobi for its unwavering support in creating this meaningful project. The event was further enriched by the presence of distinguished partners from the Minority Rights Group and Oxfam. 

The highlight of the ceremony was the live presentation of submission by students, showcasing their performative artwork. Adjudication occurred both during the Public Display and the Award Ceremony, building suspense as the judges meticulously evaluated the entries, ultimately leading to the announcement of the competition's winners. 

Highlights of the winning art pieces

The winning artwork by Joy Ogutu (Arts and Social Science student), showcased how the State can mitigate health risks by providing clean and accessible water to the community, prioritising environmental care and ensuring medical accessibility in informal settlements. He depicted the latter by illustrating an ambulance's access to an informal settlement, facilitating the transportation of a pregnant woman to the hospital. 

The first runner-up was a dance illustrating the significance of access to health services and the role of community solidarity in achieving this goal. This group submission was brought to life by the University of Nairobi Traveling Theatre. 

The second runner-up was a poignant poem by Kevin Njogu, portraying public services as seen through the eyes of an elderly woman. While reminiscing about the past, the woman celebrates the positive changes brought about by accessible services to her village. These changes encompassed education and care for the less fortunate, as well as clean water and a free healthcare system.  

Beyond its artistic showcase, the Arts Competition served as a dynamic platform to engage and empower the youth on “The Role of Public Services in Building a Just, Inclusive and Equal Society.” By amplifying their voices and perspectives, this competition nurtured future advocates dedicated to economic, social, and cultural rights. It aspires to catalyse for positive change, fostering a more equitable and inclusive future for Kenya.  

For additional information about the Arts Competition and its objectives, please visit its website here.