NAIROBI, Kenya — A parliamentary inspection has confirmed that Bomas of Kenya will not be ready in time to host the upcoming Africa-France Partnerships for Innovation and Growth Summit, forcing organisers to relocate the high-level event.
Members of the National Assembly Committee on Tourism and Wildlife reached the conclusion following an inspection tour of the facility, which is undergoing extensive upgrades to transform it into the Bomas International Convention Centre (BICC).
The team, led by Vice-Chairperson Rashid Bedzimba, said the ongoing works would not be completed within the timeline required to host the summit scheduled for May 11–12, 2026.
“Our inspection has established that the works will not be completed within the stipulated timeframe,” Bedzimba told reporters after the visit.
Tourism Principal Secretary John Ololtuaa briefed lawmakers on the project’s progress, confirming that the construction schedule would extend beyond the summit dates.
Despite the setback, the committee reaffirmed its support for the multi-billion-shilling redevelopment, describing it as a strategic investment aimed at enhancing Kenya’s capacity to host global conferences.
“The Committee is satisfied that there is value for money in the project, which is aimed at transforming Bomas into a world-class facility,” Bedzimba said, adding that lawmakers would maintain close oversight to ensure prudent use of public resources.
Khamis Chome said the decision to move the summit venue was necessary to avoid disrupting construction works and compromising project timelines.
“Changing the venue for the summit from Bomas was a pragmatic decision that will ensure the project is implemented without pressure,” he said.
The Africa-France summit is expected to bring together government officials, investors, and innovators from across the two regions, making venue readiness critical for Kenya’s diplomatic and economic positioning.
Ololtuaa described the redevelopment as a landmark initiative that will significantly boost the country’s meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) sector.
“Once complete, the BICC will position Kenya as a premier destination for high-level national and international events,” he said.
