State splashed Sh1.9 billion for KICC facelift ahead of 2023 Africa Climate Summit
As the country geared up to host the Africa Climate Summit in September 2023, the iconic building underwent a massive transformation, one that has since drawn both praise and criticism.
For years, the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) has stood as a symbol of Kenya’s growth and ambition.
But as the country geared up to host the Africa Climate Summit in September 2023, the iconic building underwent a massive transformation, one that has since drawn both praise and criticism.
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The government spent Sh1.9 billion to renovate KICC ahead of the high-profile event, a figure that contradicts earlier reports claiming the project cost Sh3.2 billion.
The revelation came as KICC Chief Executive Officer James Mwaura appeared before the Senate National Cohesion, Equal Opportunity, and Regional Integration Committee.
Mwaura explained that the renovations were extensive, covering conference rooms, hallways, pavements, and flower gardens.
“KICC was renovated for Sh1.9 billion. This was like a total overhaul of the facility. This amount was paid by the Tourism Promotion Fund,” he said.
Despite the financial investment, the facelift has sparked controversy, particularly over changes made to the building’s historic look.
Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah questioned why the original paint was altered, calling it a “terrible mess” done by the military. “Can a client be allowed to interfere with the original painting of the historical building?” he questioned.
Mwaura defended the decision, explaining that the government was the client and had specific requirements for the summit.
“Africa Climate Summit had some specifications of what they wanted. In this case, it was the government that was the client. We could not refuse, and the renovation was done by the military,” he stated.
Beyond the controversy, KICC is looking to the future with major expansion plans.
The facility has approved a Sh634.65 million procurement plan for the 2024-25 financial year. Among the upcoming projects is the installation of Dancing Fountains, which Mwaura said will be a major attraction for both local and international visitors.
“The fountains will attract both local and international visitors and boost Nairobi’s profile as a global tourism and conference destination,” he said, adding that they will be synchronized with traditional and contemporary Kenyan music for an immersive experience.
Additionally, KICC plans to transform its tower into a digital advertising platform, offering businesses prime space to showcase their brands.
“The KICC tower is set to be transformed into a digital advertising platform, providing businesses with a high-visibility space to highlight their brands,” Mwaura said.
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