The County Government of Kisumu in Kenya is making strategic strides to position the lakeside city as a premier MICE destination in East Africa.
A recent injection of KSh97.5 million (US$750 000) from the African Development Bank, channelled through its Urban and Municipal Development Fund, is the latest boost in Kisumu’s ambitious lakefront redevelopment plan. Transformative projects on the table include a 46km promenade, public beaches, green parks, an aquapark and maritime infrastructure including a marina as well as a waterbus station. The funding will finance a comprehensive feasibility study aimed at converting Kisumu’s lakefront into a climate-resilient, inclusive urban waterfront.
The completed feasibility study is expected to unlock additional funding from lenders and partners.
Involete Adhiambo, Director of Tourism for Kisumu County, described the lakefront redevelopment as “central” to Kisumu’s long-term MICE strategy. “This transformation enhances Kisumu’s attractiveness to local and international event organisers,” she said. “The project will provide unique venues – open-air event spaces, waterfront promenades and cultural exhibition areas – merging business with leisure.”
The city is keen to build on its growing reputation following high-profile events such as the Africities Summit, the Lake Region Economic Bloc forums and Festac Africa. With increased investor interest, improved infrastructure and a masterplan to brand Kisumu as “The Lake City”, Adhiambo believes the city is at a pivotal moment.
“We’re already seeing momentum,” she added. “We estimate that the hospitality sector alone could see a 30-40% revenue increase over the next three to five years, driven by MICE tourism. The lakefront is more than a beautification project. It is our blueprint for a smarter, more inclusive and economically vibrant Kisumu.”
Hasnain Noorani, MD and Founder of the PrideGroup hotels, resorts and camps, sees the timing as ideal. “There is a growing appetite for decentralised conferencing venues,” he said. “Destinations that blend business with culture and sustainability are in demand. Kisumu fits this shift.”
According to Noorani, the waterfront redevelopment mirrors successful urban renewal efforts seen in global cities. “This is a bold move that places Kisumu on the trajectory of becoming a lifestyle and business destination,” he added. “But it must be supported by public-private partnerships and improved service standards.”
Charles Kataro, CEO of the Lake Victoria Tourism Association, highlighted the city’s hosting of several important regional and international meetings. Facilities like the Lake Basin Mall Convention Centre and the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Sports Complex, coupled with its cultural sites like Kit Mikayi and Kisumu Impala Sanctuary, provide a solid foundation.
“The lakefront transformation is a game changer,” said Kataro. “It will attract international events focused on climate, water and the blue economy – issues that resonate deeply with Kisumu’s lakeside identity.”
Despite the enthusiasm, stakeholders agree that challenges remain. These include a limited number of large-capacity conference venues, inconsistent service quality, under-marketing of Kisumu as a MICE destination and occasional concerns about security perceptions.
“There’s a need for better coordination between the county, private sector and national tourism bodies,” said Noorani. “The hospitality industry must match the ambition with improved infrastructure and service excellence.”
There are still gaps in high-end accommodation and digital infrastructure, Kataro added.
“Sometimes we lack reliable internet at venues or there’s a scramble for rooms during large events,” he said. “But the feasibility study and investments underway are the first steps toward fixing this.”
The county is already addressing these issues by supporting community tourism and enhancing readiness through training and quality assurance programmes. In addition, the county is rolling out the Kisumu Tourism Masterplan, which includes branding Kisumu as “The Lake City”, upgrading cultural centres, digitising tourism services and working closely with the private sector to market the county internationally.
