Kenya is set to revolutionize its Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism sector with the development of the Bomas International Conference Center (BICC). This ambitious project, located in Nairobi, aims to position Kenya as a leading global destination for international conferences and events.
Key Features of BICC:
- 11,000-seat convention center
- Presidential Pavilion
- Multiple high-end hotels
- Modern exhibition halls
- Sports and recreational amenities
The BICC is expected to be the largest conferencing facility in East and Central Africa, with a scheduled completion date of April 2026. The project has already secured a significant event, the France-Africa Summit, scheduled for May 12, 2026 ¹ ² ³.
Government’s Vision:
President William Ruto has emphasized the transformative potential of BICC, stating that it will elevate Kenya’s status as a premier international destination. The government aims to re-engineer Kenya’s tourism product, showcasing its diverse offerings beyond traditional safari tourism.
Economic Impact:
The BICC is projected to generate thousands of jobs, catalyze new investments, and firmly position Nairobi as a continental diplomatic and business hub. The facility will also contribute to Kenya’s growing MICE industry, enhancing the country’s attractiveness for global events.
Addressing Concerns:
The project has faced controversy regarding funding transparency and claims of selling Bomas of Kenya to a foreign entity. However, the government has denied these claims, confirming that the property remains state-owned and the project involves renovation and expansion, not a sale ¹ ³ ⁴.
Infrastructure Development:
The BICC will feature advanced infrastructure, including:
- Light rail connectivity
- Key road upgrades
- Enhanced water circulation systems
- Advanced ICT networks
The project is being supervised by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to ensure timely delivery and global standards ².
Kenya’s MICE Tourism Strategy:
The BICC is part of Kenya’s broader strategy to boost MICE tourism, focusing on sustainable tourism, enhanced global marketing, and investment in MICE infrastructure. The government aims to position Nairobi as a leading MICE hub in Africa, attracting international events and enhancing the country’s tourism and hospitality sectors ¹ ⁵ ⁶.
