Government spent Sh1.9 billion on KICC upgrade, Senate told

The government spent Sh1.9 billion to renovate the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) ahead of the 2023 Africa Climate Summit, a figure that contradicts an earlier sum of Sh3.2 billion.

The project, which aimed to modernize the historic facility, has sparked debate over the cost and changes to the building’s original appearance.

KICC Chief Executive Officer James Mwaura confirmed the expenditure while appearing before the Senate National Cohesion, Equal Opportunity, and Regional Integration Committee.

He explained that the renovations covered various areas, including 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,” Mwaura stated.

While the upgrades were meant to enhance the facility’s status, they have drawn criticism, particularly regarding alterations to its historical look.

Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah took issue with the change in the building’s original paint, describing it as a “terrible mess” and questioning why such modifications were permitted.

“Can a client be allowed to interfere with the original painting of the historical building?” he asked.

Mwaura defended the decision, stating that the government had specific requirements for the event.

"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 said.

Despite the concerns, KICC is looking ahead with ambitious expansion plans. The facility has set aside Sh634.65 million for projects in the 2024-25 financial year.

One of the key developments includes the installation of Dancing Fountains, which Mwaura believes will attract visitors and enhance Nairobi’s status as a global conference and tourism hub.

“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, plans are underway to transform the KICC tower into a digital advertising platform, allowing businesses to showcase their brands prominently.

“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 noted.

The debate over the renovation cost had been ongoing, with MPs previously investigating claims that the government spent Sh3.2 billion on the project.

Mwaura’s testimony before the Senate now provides clarity on the actual expenditure.