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Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has welcomed the Cabinet’s approval of the Kenya National Convention Bureau (KNCB), describing it as a major step in positioning Kenya as a leading hub for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE).
The bureau will oversee the planning, marketing, and execution of international conventions and events, ensuring Kenya maximizes both economic and diplomatic benefits from hosting major regional and global gatherings.
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Its establishment comes ahead of the 4th COMESA–EAC–SADC Tripartite Summit, scheduled for mid-2026, which Kenya will host.
In a statement, CS Miano emphasized that the bureau will enhance Kenya’s international profile and drive the growth of the MICE sector, a key contributor to employment and revenue.
“The Kenya National Convention Bureau is central to unlocking the potential of the MICE sector. It will coordinate Kenya’s business events strategy, working with stakeholders to attract international conferences and association congresses that will support tourism and broader economic growth,” she said.
She added that the initiative aligns with Kenya Vision 2030 and the Tourism Sector Master Plan, both of which identify MICE tourism as a high-growth area.
Miano also noted that hosting the 2026 Tripartite Summit demonstrates confidence in Kenya’s ability to manage high-level international events.
“The operationalization of the bureau is a strategic milestone for our tourism and events ecosystem. It provides a dedicated structure to attract, coordinate, and deliver major international conferences, with the Tripartite Summit affirming our readiness,” she said.
Highlighting the economic benefits, Miano explained that MICE tourism generates significant revenue for hospitality, transport, creative industries, and small businesses, while creating jobs and enhancing skills development. She also noted that these revenues support wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism initiatives.
“The Kenya National Convention Bureau will showcase our professionalism and commitment to hosting sustainable, world-class events as we prepare to welcome the global community in 2026,” she added.
The Kenya Kwanza administration has prioritized the growth of the MICE sector, with construction at the Bomas of Kenya expected to be completed by April 2026. Once operational, it is set to become the largest convention centre in East Africa, further strengthening Kenya’s capacity to host major international events.
