NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenya is poised to strengthen its standing as Africa’s premier hub for international conferences and exhibitions with the nearing completion of the Bomas International Convention Complex (BICC), Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has said.
The multi-billion-shilling facility is expected to play a transformative role in the country’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) sector, significantly expanding Kenya’s capacity to host large-scale global summits, trade expos and cultural events.
Once completed, the complex will accommodate up to 11,000 delegates, placing it among the largest and most modern convention centres on the continent.
The government views the project as a strategic investment aimed at restoring Kenya’s competitiveness in the global meetings industry.
CS Miano said the BICC goes beyond bricks and mortar, describing it as a key pillar in strengthening the tourism value chain and unlocking new economic opportunities.
“The Bomas International Convention Complex will be the crown jewel of our MICE offering. It positions Kenya competitively on the global stage while creating growth opportunities across tourism, hospitality, transport, trade and the creative economy,” she said.
Designed as a multi-purpose venue, the BICC will host international summits, regional conferences, exhibitions and cultural showcases.
Its location in Nairobi — often described as Africa’s diplomatic capital — is expected to further enhance the city’s appeal to international organisations and multinational forums.
The complex will also offer a distinctive experience by integrating world-class conferencing infrastructure with Kenya’s cultural heritage, allowing delegates to engage in high-level business while enjoying authentic cultural performances and experiences.
According to the Tourism CS, the economic ripple effects of the project are expected to be substantial. Increased international events are projected to drive up visitor arrivals, raise hotel occupancy levels and stimulate demand for transport, logistics and auxiliary services.
The development is also expected to benefit local suppliers, small and medium-sized enterprises and creative professionals, while generating thousands of direct and indirect jobs.
CS Miano credited the progress of the Bomas project to the leadership of President William Ruto, noting that the development aligns with the government’s broader strategy of positioning tourism and business events as key drivers of economic growth.
As Kenya prepares to host more global conversations, the Bomas International Convention Complex is emerging as a symbol of ambition and readiness, underscoring the country’s intent to showcase its culture, capacity and confidence on a world-class platform.
