Jessica KAAHWA

Dr. Jessica A. Kaahwa, Ph.D., is a distinguished theatre director, actor, critic, and scholar with an illustrious career in theatre and participatory communication methodologies for social change and development. With expertise spanning over three decades, Dr. Kaahwa has made significant contributions to both academic and practical applications of theatre, particularly in conflict analysis and transformation, health improvement, and empowerment.

Dr. Kaahwa received her Ph.D. in Theatre History, Theory, and Criticism from the University of Maryland, College Park, in 2001, after obtaining a Bachelor's degree from the University of Benin, Nigeria, and a Master of Arts in Theatre from Makerere University, Kampala. Her academic journey was complemented by professional experience as a broadcaster with Radio Nigeria's External Service. Prior to her retirement in 2020, Dr. Kaahwa was a Senior Lecturer at Makerere University, where she taught in the Department of Performing Arts and Film for 35 years, leaving an indelible mark on her students and colleagues.

As an architect of several national and international initiatives, Dr. Kaahwa has pioneered the use of theatre and media in addressing societal challenges, including post-conflict reconstruction and health promotion. Her work continues to push the boundaries of theatre applications, notably through her experimentation with "Processes Theory" in applied theatre, focusing on personal empowerment and community transformation. Dr. Kaahwa is a staunch advocate of experiential learning, having facilitated numerous training programs for organizations and academic institutions worldwide.

In 2011, Jessica Kaahwa was selected as the World Theatre Day Message Author and delivered her message by the speech during the World Theatre Day 2011 Celebration in Paris.

Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including the United States Alumni Globe Award (2014), Honorary Membership of the African Theatre Association (2021), the 70th International Theatre Institute Anniversary Medal (2018), and the Cairo International Festival for Contemporary and Experimental Community Development Theatre. Recipient of the highest honor of the Golden Award (2019).

Her contributions to theatre research and practice have been recognized through a series of prestigious grants, including the British Council International Exchange Grant (1995 and 2003), Ford Foundation Research Grant (2007), U.S. State Alumni Engagement Grant (2012), and the Fulbright 70th Anniversary Celebration Grant (2016), among others. Beyond her academic achievements, Dr. Kaahwa continues to consult, mentor young artists, and serve as Deputy Vice President of the ITI Regional Council for Africa. From September 2024, she holds the position of President of the International Theatre Institute ITI worldwide.

Dr. Kaahwa's enduring legacy includes the establishment of a physical theatre library, further enriching theatre scholarship and practice.


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