PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
1st October 2026

The SMDA Awards: A New Digital Stage for Global Arts, History and Culture

(Based in East Africa)

Today marks the official launch of The SMDA Awards, a prestigious new online awards program established to recognize, celebrate, and elevate outstanding achievements in arts, history and culture of East African origin.

In an era where creativity transcends physical borders, this virtual platform was created to honour dignitaries, celebrities, historians, creatives, artists, writers, performers, and cultural innovators who are driving global conversation and inspiring communities worldwide to celebrate the rich history, culture, creativity and artistic innovations of East Africa.

Our mission is to celebrate, democratize, diversify, inspire and promote the arts of East Africa.

By bringing this awards experience entirely online, we are removing geographic barriers and creating a global stage where diverse, impactful work can be recognized by peers and audiences alike.

The inaugural 2026 online awards will only feature special achievement categories spanning all fields of Arts, History and Culture of East African origin.

Key Dates to Remember

SMDA Special Achievement Awards winners will be given a unique award, plaque, certificate and an East African gift basket from the various stakeholders involved with the awards.

Nominees have been reviewed since January 2026 by an esteemed panel of judges comprising the estate of the legendary African statesman, His Excellency Stephen Mhando (veteran Foreign Secretary of Tanzania), the digital archive leaders, high-ranking members of the family, and industry experts, creators, and cultural leaders who knew the late Stephen Mhando.

Media Contact

Naisae
Director & Head Curator
Email: director@stephenmhando.com
CC: stephenmhandoarchive@gmail.com
Telephone number available on request.