Kenya’s private sector is stepping up to revive the country’s MICE industry with the aim of restoring Nairobi as East Africa’s events hub and unlock new trade and investment.
Speaking at the Africa MICE Summit, experts said private investments in infrastructure, hotel capacity, and partnerships are filling gaps left by slow public delivery and giving Kenya a competitive edge. New brands such as Argyle, JW Marriott, Glee, and The Edge have expanded Nairobi’s capacity to host 500-plus delegates, but bigger ambitions require new infrastructure.
“The real game-changer would be a centrally located private conference hotel with a 1 000-plus plenary hall and expo floor in a safe, walkable district such as Westlands, Lavington, Gigiri, or Kilimani/Kileleshwa,” said Havar Bauck, Co-founder of Hotel online.
Kezy Mukiri, Convener of the Africa MICE Summit, said MICE is more than just meetings. “Business travellers don’t just attend conferences; they scout for partners, joint ventures, and investment opportunities.
Access still a bottleneck
Kenya’s airline connectivity remains a challenge. High long-haul fares and constant changes to taxes deter delegates. Bauck said if return tickets on routes such as London-Nairobi dropped below $500 – as they do on similar-distances routes elsewhere – Kenya’s MICE competitiveness would soar.
Infrastructure projects such as the Nairobi Expressway have improved access, but congestion off major arteries still hinders multi-venue events. Industry players called for reliable mass-transit systems, safer walkable districts, and expanded airport capacity.
Other gaps are also preventing growth. “There is a need to package and profile investment opportunities clearly,” Mukiri said. “Many investors have capital but lack information. For instance, property developers are building malls with low occupancy, while convention centres could yield higher returns if marketed better.”
She added that training MICE-ready talent is critical, as most tourism programmes still overlook conference and event management.
Sustainability and technology are additional pressure points. Many private operators are integrating eco-friendly practices, but suppliers often lack green alternatives. “The challenge isn’t willpower but options,” Mukiri added.
Similarly, despite Kenya’s reputation as the Silicon Savannah, much of its MICE technology is imported at high cost. Linking local innovators with investors could create affordable, locally tailored solutions.
Government’s role
Tourism Principal Secretary, John Ololtua, said Kenya’s strategy is anchored on four priorities: sustainability to ensure every event supports a low-carbon future; inclusivity and economic impact to benefit youth and women; cultural heritage integration to showcase Kenya’s identity; and economic growth to unlock opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The ministry is also establishing the Kenya National Convention Bureau to bid more aggressively for global events and position the country as a safe, technology-driven destination.
To improve the MICE sector, experts agreed that the key actions to be taken by the government include expanding airport capacity in Nairobi and Mombasa, liberalising air service agreements, and lowering aviation taxes and fees to stimulate competition.
“Streamlined entry processes – simpler eTA, group conference visas, and dedicated delegate lanes – would reduce border friction,” said Bauck. He added that attracting private investment through tax incentives and strategic access to government land for new convention centres and hotels could expand capacity dramatically.
“With the right mix of affordable airfares, improved infrastructure, and investor-friendly policies, Kenya can reclaim its place as a regional MICE powerhouse – and even aspire to compete with global hubs like London, Berlin, or Shanghai. With strategic investment in air connectivity, infrastructure, and world-class facilities, coupled with sustainable and inclusive practices, Kenya can reclaim its place as East Africa’s MICE powerhouse,” Bauck added.
