Kenyatta International Convention Centre
Nairobi Region
The Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) is a prominent 32-story building located in Nairobi's City Square, serving as a key venue for conferences and government offices. Commissioned by Kenya's first president, Jomo Kenyatta, and completed in 1973, the KICC was once Nairobi's tallest building. Its architecture features a light terracotta façade inspired by traditional African design, with a distinctive cylindrical tower composed of cuboids, and cone-shaped amphitheatre and helipad. The centre houses multiple conference and meeting rooms, including the Tsavo Ballroom, East Africa's largest conference chamber, capable of hosting over 5,000 delegates. The amphitheatre accommodates 800 people and is equipped with advanced interpretation and audio systems. A revolving restaurant atop the tower offers 360-degree panoramic views of Nairobi, completing a unique visitor experience. The surrounding courtyard features gardens, pools, fountains, and a statue of Jomo Kenyatta, providing a tranquil space for event attendees. The KICC plays a vital role in promoting Kenya as a leading destination for business travel and MICE tourism, aligning with the Kenya Vision 2030 objectives.
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Tip: The best time to visit the KICC is during weekdays when conferences and events are active, offering vibrant business atmospheres. Visitors interested in panoramic city views should check the revolving restaurant's opening hours, as it has undergone periods of closure. Booking conference or event tickets in advance is recommended, especially for large gatherings. The centre offers modern facilities including interpretation services supporting up to seven languages, making it ideal for international visitors. Discounts may be available for group bookings or early reservations. Parking is ample and secure, but public transport access is also convenient given the central location.
Interesting facts
- •The KICC was Nairobi's tallest building for 26 years until surpassed by the Teleposta Tower.
- •Its revolving restaurant completes a full 360° rotation every 76 minutes, offering panoramic city views.
- •The Tsavo Ballroom is the largest conference chamber in East Africa, accommodating over 5,000 delegates.
- •The amphitheatre includes simultaneous interpretation booths capable of supporting up to seven languages.
- •The courtyard features a 1971 statue of Jomo Kenyatta by sculptor James Butler, surrounded by gardens and fountains.
History
The KICC was commissioned in 1967 by President Jomo Kenyatta and designed by architects Karl Henrik Nøstvik and David Mutiso.
Construction occurred in three phases and completed in 1973, marking it as Nairobi's tallest building for over two decades.
Initially named the Kenyatta International Conference Centre, it was renamed in 2013 to reflect its expanded role.
The centre became a State Corporation under the Tourism Act in 2011, with a mandate to promote Kenya as a preferred destination for business and MICE tourism, integral to the Kenya Vision 2030 development plan.
Place Guide
Revolving Restaurant1973
A 148-seat restaurant atop the tower that rotates 360° every 76 minutes, providing panoramic views of Nairobi. Once popular with politicians and elites, it has undergone periods of closure and revival efforts.
Tsavo Ballroom1973
East Africa's largest conference chamber, designed with soundproof grey stone, natural wood, and lofty ceilings. It hosts large international meetings, exhibitions, and grand balls with a capacity of over 5,000 people.
Amphitheatre1973
A medium-sized auditorium with three balconies accommodating 800 people, ideal for business meetings. It features simultaneous interpretation booths, full logic recording facilities, a public address system, and soundproofing.
Courtyard and Statue of Jomo Kenyatta1971
A paved 75-square-meter courtyard surrounding the 1971 statue of Kenya's first president by James Butler. The area includes gardens, pools, geyser fountains, flagpoles, and balconies for promotional displays, serving as a restful space for conference attendees.
Contact
Phone: 020 3261000
