The Senate has been informed that the government spent Sh1.9 billion on renovating the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), disputing earlier reports that had placed the cost at Sh3.2 billion. Despite the extensive renovations, the facility is yet to achieve its full revenue potential.
KICC Chief Executive Officer James Mwaura told the Senate’s National Cohesion, Equal Opportunities, and Regional Integration Committee that the convention centre generates Sh200 million in annual profits.
He noted that although the current earnings are modest, the facility has the potential to generate over Sh700 million annually.
Mwaura explained that the Sh1.9 billion renovation covered the refurbishment of conference rooms, hallways, pavements, and flower gardens, describing it as a complete makeover funded by the Tourism Promotion Fund.
He also revealed that KICC has approved a procurement plan worth Sh634.65 million for the 2024/25 financial year.
However, senators raised concerns about changes made to the building’s original appearance, particularly its new paintwork. Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah questioned whether a client could be allowed to alter the historic landmark’s original painting, criticizing the military, which carried out the task.
“Kenyatta International Convention Centre is one of the country’s most treasured buildings, constructed many years ago. How could a client be allowed to interfere with its original painting? What was done by the military was completely wrong,” said Omtatah.
In response, Mwaura clarified that state corporations can fund renovations based on their needs and that in this case, the client was the government. He explained that the changes were made to meet the requirements of the Africa Climate Summit held in September 2023, which necessitated a new look for the venue.
To enhance KICC’s revenue generation, Mwaura disclosed plans to install high-tech dancing fountains, which will feature advanced robotics and artificial intelligence.
The fountains will synchronize with both traditional and contemporary Kenyan music, aiming to attract local and international visitors and boost Nairobi’s profile as a global tourism and conference destination.
Additionally, the KICC tower will be transformed into a digital advertising platform, allowing businesses to showcase their brands on a high-visibility space.
Established under the Tourism Act 2011, KICC is mandated to promote meetings, conferences, and exhibitions, with its management now focusing on positioning it as a premier venue for global events.
