Construction of the Bomas International Convention Complex (BICC) has reached about 40 per cent completion, Bomas acting CEO Jimmy Okidiang has confirmed, signaling steady progress on the ambitious infrastructure project.
Okidiang revealed that the facility has already secured bookings for major global events, including the Africa–France Summit scheduled for May, even as construction continues.
Designed to host up to 11,000 delegates, the BICC is set to reshape Kenya’s standing as a leading hub for business tourism, international conferences, and high-level diplomatic gatherings.
President William Ruto has repeatedly described the BICC as a central pillar of Kenya’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) strategy, viewing the project as a long-term investment in economic growth and global visibility.
Speaking during the Jamhuri Thematic Week last December, the Head of State said, “We are building the largest conferencing facility in East and Central Africa, right at the Bomas of Kenya.”
He added, “It is being constructed 24 hours a day because I have set a timeline for it to begin generating revenue for the country. I am confident that with the infrastructure we are putting in place and the creativity around our tourism products, we can reposition Kenya as a holistic business-tourism destination.”
President Ruto noted that large-scale conference facilities like the BICC go beyond hosting events, serving as catalysts for job creation, investment, and international recognition. He linked the project to a broader plan to leverage Kenya’s cultural heritage, natural attractions, and modern infrastructure to attract global conferences and exhibitions.
The government expects the MICE sector to unlock employment opportunities across hospitality, transport, agriculture, entertainment, and related industries, while also raising Nairobi’s profile as a global city.
Okidiang described the BICC as a “game changer” for both Kenya and the wider region.
“Once complete, Nairobi will join the league of top conference cities in the world,” he said.
He added, “This facility is unmatched in East Africa and will compete with global standards. Regional countries have smaller facilities, but for a complex of this magnitude, the BICC will transform not only the city but also Kenya’s profile internationally.”
According to Okidiang, the economic impact of the project will extend far beyond the convention halls.
“The BICC will have a ripple effect across the economy. It is not just about those working within the facility, but all sectors linked to it,” he said.
He explained, “Farmers will supply fresh produce, taxi drivers will transport delegates, and hotels and restaurants will cater to visitors. This will inject significant revenue into the economy and create employment opportunities across the board.”
Okidiang also pointed to the facility’s modern architectural design and advanced technology as key features that set it apart.
“This is a modern facility equipped with cutting-edge technology, capable of hosting 11,000 people. It is a historic milestone, and I am excited to be part of a team that is shaping the future of this nation,” he said.
The BICC marks a major upgrade from the existing Bomas amphitheatre, which has a seating capacity of 3,400. The new complex more than triples that capacity and includes a presidential pavilion designed to host up to 30 heads of state.
Okidiang noted that the scale and sophistication of the project place Kenya alongside established global conference destinations such as Singapore, Dubai, and Cape Town.
“The facility is not only about size but also about strategic positioning,” he said.
“We want Kenya to attract high-level summits, regional conferences, and global exhibitions. This is part of a deliberate government strategy to use infrastructure development as a tool to elevate Nairobi to the world stage.”
Okidiang added, “We are not just building a facility; we are building a legacy. Nairobi is on its way to joining the top league of conference cities, and the BICC is central to that vision.”
With construction ongoing around the clock and international bookings already confirmed, the Bomas International Convention Complex is expected to usher in a new era of economic growth, global prestige, and opportunity for Kenya.
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