Bomas of Kenya not ready for 2026 Africa-France Summit amid ongoing renovations

Bomas of Kenya not ready for 2026 Africa-France Summit amid ongoing renovations
Bomas of Kenya not ready for 2026 Africa-France Summit amid ongoing renovations - An aerial view of a section of the structures at Bomas International Convention Complex on February 27, 2026. (Photo: PCS)
An aerial view of a section of the structures at Bomas International Convention Complex on February 27, 2026. (Photo: PCS)

Voi MP Khamis Chome noted that the Africa-France summit had to be moved due to the unavailability of the venue, describing the decision as pragmatic in order to avoid disrupting the ongoing construction works.

A parliamentary inspection has established that the Bomas of Kenya in Nairobi, which is currently under renovation, will not be ready in time to host the May 11–12, 2026 Africa-France Partnerships for Innovation and Growth Summit.
Members of the National Assembly Committee on Tourism and Wildlife were informed during an inspection tour of the facility, which is undergoing a major facelift aimed at transforming it into the Bomas International Convention Centre (BICC). The Committee was led by Vice-Chairperson Rashid Bedzimba, who represents Kisauni Constituency.
Tourism Principal Secretary John Ololtuaa briefed legislators on the progress of the ongoing works, confirming that the project will not be completed within the required timeframe to accommodate the high-profile international summit.

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The inspection team subsequently established that the venue would not be ready for the scheduled event. "Our inspection has established that the works will not be completed within the stipulated timeframe," said Rashid.
Despite the setback, the Committee reaffirmed its support for the transformation of the Bomas of Kenya into the BICC, describing it as a strategic investment that will enhance Kenya’s capacity to host major international conferences and events.
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"The Committee is satisfied that there is value for money in the project, which is aimed at transforming Bomas into a world-class facility," Rashid added.

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Members also pledged continued oversight to ensure prudent use of public funds throughout the project’s implementation.
Voi MP Khamis Chome noted that the Africa-France summit had to be moved due to the unavailability of the venue, describing the decision as pragmatic in order to avoid disrupting the ongoing construction works.
"Changing the venue for the summit from Bomas was a pragmatic decision that will ensure the multi-billion-dollar project is implemented without pressure," he said.
PS Ololtuaa described the redevelopment as a landmark initiative that will significantly boost Kenya’s tourism and conference hosting capacity.
"Once complete, the BICC will position Kenya as a premier destination for high-level national and international events," he said.

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