International Jury recognizes academic’s satirical art for defending free expression and human rights
Makerere’s academic and political cartoonist Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo has been named co-winner of the 2026 Kofi Annan Courage in Cartooning Award, earning international recognition for his use of satire to challenge power, promote accountability and defend freedom of expression.
The award, presented by the Freedom Cartoonists Foundation in partnership with the City of Geneva, honours editorial cartoonists who demonstrate exceptional courage in advancing free speech, often in politically sensitive or restrictive environments.
Dr. Ssentongo shares this year’s award with Palestinian cartoonist Safaa Odah. The organisers said both artists were selected for their ability to address complex social and political issues through powerful visual storytelling while amplifying human rights concerns.
The recognition was accompanied by an exhibition of Ssentongo’s work overlooking Lake Geneva, placing the Ugandan cartoonist among a select group of internationally acclaimed artists whose work has shaped public discourse through satire.
International recognition for courageous cartooning
Announcing the winners, the Freedom Cartoonists Foundation praised the two laureates for combining artistic excellence with a commitment to speaking truth to power.
“The 2026 Prize laureates embody the fight of cartoonists for freedom on one side, Spire, who stands up to power in Uganda, and on the other, Safaa Odah, whose work expresses a profound humanity in the heart of conflict,” said Patrick Chappatte, President of the Foundation.
The winners were selected by an international jury chaired by human rights advocate Kenneth Roth, underscoring the award’s emphasis on freedom of expression and democratic values.
Satire as a tool for accountability
Widely known by his pen name “Spire,” Ssentongo has established himself as one of Uganda’s most influential public intellectuals and political commentators.
Through his cartoons, newspaper columns and public engagements, he has consistently addressed issues of governance, corruption, social justice and public accountability.
His cartoons, often characterized by wit, symbolism and sharp social commentary, have generated public debate and encouraged critical reflection on political and societal issues.
Observers note that editorial cartooning remains one of the most accessible forms of civic engagement, capable of communicating complex political messages across social and educational divides.
Spotlight on freedom of expression
The award comes at a time when concerns over freedom of expression and media independence continue to attract global attention.
Organisers said the Courage in Cartooning Award seeks to recognize artists who continue to express independent viewpoints despite challenges that may arise from political, social or institutional pressures.
By honouring cartoonists from different regions of the world, the award highlights the role of visual satire in fostering dialogue, defending democratic values and promoting human rights.
Milestone for Uganda’s creative and academic communities
Ssentongo’s recognition is being celebrated as a significant achievement for Uganda’s creative arts sector and academic community.
Colleagues and supporters described the award as evidence that artistic expression can play an important role in shaping public conversations and advancing civic engagement.
The international honour adds to Ssentongo’s growing profile as both a scholar and artist whose work bridges academia, public discourse and creative expression.
His success also shines a spotlight on the role of political cartooning in Africa, where artists continue to use satire to question authority, challenge injustice and give voice to public concerns.
For many observers, the award affirms the enduring power of art to provoke thought, inspire dialogue and defend freedoms that underpin democratic societies.
By Jane Anyango and Peninah Nalubega