NAIROBI, Kenya- Kenya is making a bold move to solidify its position in the global Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry.
In a strategic partnership unveiled today, the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) and Kenya Airways (KQ) have joined forces to promote Kenya as a top destination for business events.
This collaboration promises to elevate Kenya’s profile, driving tourism growth and attracting high-profile international conferences.
At the official unveiling, CPA James Mwaura, CEO of KICC, highlighted the importance of this partnership in promoting Kenya’s vast potential as a world-class MICE destination.
“This partnership between KICC and Kenya Airways marks a pivotal step towards enhancing Kenya’s visibility and competitiveness,” said Mwaura.
By working together, KICC and KQ aim to leverage their combined expertise to source new MICE markets, bid for international conferences, and attract more global events.
Mwaura pointed out that successful MICE destinations often rely on close collaboration with national airlines.
With Kenya Airways on board, the partnership aims to implement delegate-boosting strategies such as offering special travel packages and incentive holidays for conference attendees.
The initiative not only supports the MICE industry but also strengthens Kenya’s economy by bringing in international events that contribute to tourism revenue.
Kenya Airways Group MD and CEO, Allan Kilavuka, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, aligning it with KQ’s mission of enhancing Africa’s connectivity.
“Our collaboration with KICC reinforces Kenya Airways’ commitment to supporting Kenya’s growth as a leading MICE destination,” Kilavuka stated.
KQ’s global network will play a key role in attracting international business opportunities, helping to secure high-profile conferences and exhibitions.
One standout feature of this partnership is the launch of a dedicated ticketing office at KICC—dubbed the Asante Executive Hub—to streamline travel logistics for event delegates.
This move will provide convenience for both local and international attendees, ensuring seamless travel arrangements and enhancing Kenya’s appeal as a business event hub.
The timing of this partnership is perfect, as Kenya continues to rise in the global MICE arena. Recently, Kenya secured a prestigious role by winning the bid to chair the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) Africa Chapter, positioning the country to influence MICE strategies across the continent.