Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) – Price, Capacity, Reviews, Contacts & Location
Introducion
The Kenyatta International Convention Centre is not just a building; it’s an iconic landmark at the heart of Nairobi that embodies Kenya’s stature as a premier destination for business tourism, conferences, and large-scale events. For decades, event planners, corporations, government agencies, and international organisations have chosen the Kenyatta International Convention Centre as the preferred venue for expos, meetings, seminars, exhibitions, and cultural events because of its capacity, strategic location, versatile facilities, and historical significance.
In this extensive guide, we explore the history and facilities of the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, its price structures and capacity options, how it compares with other venues in Africa, what attendees and organisers say about it, and why hiring G6Image a professional event coverage and production company is the best decision you can make to ensure your event at KICC is seamless, high-quality, and memorable. Visit G6Image Kenya to learn more about their services.
Overview of the Kenyatta International Convention Centre
Located in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD), the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (often abbreviated as KICC) is one of Kenya’s most renowned architectural masterpieces and event spaces. Its distinctive cylindrical shape and towering structure make it instantly recognisable on the Nairobi skyline, and for many it symbolises Kenya’s embrace of modern business engagement and international collaboration.
Completed in the early 1970s and named after Kenya’s first President, Jomo Kenyatta, the centre has been at the forefront of hosting high-profile conferences, international summits, corporate meetings, exhibitions, and trade fairs for more than five decades.
Today, KICC is considered one of Africa’s leading convention venues not only for business events but also for cultural showcases, social functions, award ceremonies, and major public engagements. Its strategic location, panoramic city views, and range of indoor and outdoor spaces make it a top choice for event organisers.
History and Architectural Significance
The Kenyatta International Convention Centre was commissioned by President Jomo Kenyatta in the late 1960s and officially completed in 1973. It was designed by Norwegian architect Karl Henrik Nøstvik with contributions from Kenyan architect David Mutiso, blending modernist design with elements inspired by traditional African forms.
For decades, KICC held the title of tallest building in Nairobi and served as a powerful symbol of Kenya’s development and global aspirations. Its unique architectural form, vibrant façade, and commanding presence make it a must-visit location for both visitors and event attendees alike.
Strategic Location and Accessibility
One of the standout strengths of the Kenyatta International Convention Centre is its central location on Harambee Avenue, Nairobi, placing it within walking distance of major hotels, restaurants, transportation hubs, and commercial offices making it extremely convenient for delegates and guests.
The venue is easily accessible from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) and other key points around Nairobi, and its central placement in the CBD means attendees can pair conferences with leisure tours, city exploration, or business meetings without extensive travel.
Facilities and Capacity
The Kenyatta International Convention Centre is designed to host events of all sizes—ranging from intimate corporate boardrooms to large international exhibitions. Its flexibility and scale are among its most prized features.
Main Conference and Exhibition Halls
One of the most popular spaces in KICC is the Tsavo Ballroom, which serves as a flagship conference and event area. The Tsavo Ballroom can accommodate up to 4,000 delegates in various configurations such as theatre style, classroom, or banquet.
Distributed throughout the complex are additional rooms such as:
- Tsavo A and Tsavo B – sub-sections of the main hall for medium-sized gatherings.
- Aberdares Hall – ideal for mid-size meetings and breakout sessions.
- Lenana Hall – suitable for workshops or medium-sized corporate functions.
- Amphitheatre – tiered seating for approximately 800 attendees, perfect for seminars or presentations with auditorium-style requirements.
- Smaller meeting rooms such as the Impala Room, Lake Turkana Room, and others for focused, intimate sessions.
In addition to these, the venue includes outdoor areas like the Courtyard, The Lawns, and COMESA Grounds, which are excellent for exhibitions, networking events, gala dinners, or concerts with capacities reaching into the thousands.
This range of spaces allows planners to host multiple activities simultaneously under one roof a level of versatility that few other venues can match.
Pricing and Booking Information
When assessing the cost of hosting an event at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, it’s important to understand that pricing depends on the space you choose, the nature of the event (e.g., conference, exhibition, concert), and the duration of your booking.
Here’s a high-level look at typical pricing (inclusive of 10% service charge and VAT):
Event Space Daily Rental Examples
- Tsavo Ballroom – approx. KES 430,815 (conference) or KES 510,400 (concert).
- Amphitheatre – approx. KES 236,621.
- Aberdares Hall – approx. KES 117,961.
- Lenana Hall – approx. KES 107,237.
- Courtyard and Lawns – typically around KES 165,880.
Helipad use, rooftop experiences, and filming permissions are offered at separate rates, reflecting the unique nature of these facilities.
Bookings can be made directly through KICC’s event management team, which can provide tailored quotes based on your event’s specific requirements.
Visitor Facilities and Services
The Kenyatta International Convention Centre is not just an event venue it’s a full-service facility built to support delegates and attendees in every aspect of their visit. On-site amenities include free high-speed Wi-Fi, business centres, ATMs, medical assistance, air ticketing services, charging booths, lost and found, and elegant lounges, all designed to make your time at KICC productive, comfortable, and stress-free.
These conveniences make KICC an ideal choice for large international events where delegates may spend several days attending sessions, networking, and socialising.
Visitor Reviews and Reputation
The Kenyatta International Convention Centre boasts excellent reviews from clients and attendees alike, often praised for its central location, versatile spaces, professional staff, and iconic architecture. In venue listings and event planning guides, KICC frequently ranks among Nairobi’s top conference facilities often scoring 4.5 out of 5 stars or higher in user reviews.
The availability of simultaneous interpretation capabilities, modern audiovisual support, and spacious layouts further solidify KICC’s reputation as an efficient and reliable events destination.
Why KICC Matters for International and Local Events
For Kenya’s economy, the Kenyatta International Convention Centre plays a leading role in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector. It attracts business travellers, corporate delegations, trade associations, and cultural organisations from around the world, contributing significantly to tourism and international engagement.
Its prestige and track record have helped position Nairobi as a regional hub for business and diplomacy, drawing major conferences, multinational summits, and high-profile forums each year.
Top Events Hosted at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre
Over its history, the Kenyatta International Convention Centre has hosted a wide variety of global-level meetings and high-impact activities. These have included trade expos, government summits, business forums, trade association conferences, cultural exhibits, and more.
The venue’s versatility makes it equally suitable for industry expos, large conventions, product launches, corporate annual general meetings (AGMs), and even hybrid events that combine in-person attendees with online audiences a growing trend in event planning today.
Choosing the Right Event Coverage Partner for KICC – Why G6Image Is Your Best Choice
Hosting an event at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre ensures you have a prestigious venue but venue alone does not guarantee an impactful event. To truly maximise your event’s reach, media quality, and audience experience, you must select a professional event coverage partner that understands both the venue and how to deliver broadcast-ready production.
This is where G6Image stands out.
1. Expert Production Tailored to KICC Events
G6Image has extensive experience covering large corporate conferences, exhibitions, government events, and hybrid sessions at venues like the Kenyatta International Convention Centre. Their team understands the acoustics, lighting, camera placements, and production flow that make coverage at KICC exceptional.
2. Advanced Live Streaming Capabilities
Whether you are hosting a hybrid summit or live-streaming sessions for global delegates, G6Image offers top-tier streaming services, including multi-camera setups, real-time editing, and cross-platform delivery that ensure your event looks professional on all devices. Visit G6Image to explore their live streaming solutions.
3. Professional Team and Equipment
From high-end cameras and audio systems to reliable redundancy backups and broadcast-level equipment, G6Image brings technology and expertise that ensure smooth coverage, whether the event is indoors, outdoors, or moving between different KICC halls.
4. Comprehensive Event Documentation
Post-event editing, highlight reels, and professional photography help you extend the value of your event long after it ends. G6Image delivers polished deliverables that can be reused for marketing, promotions, or internal communications.
5. Understanding the MICE Market
With deep experience in Kenya’s MICE sector, G6Image is not just a vendor; they are a strategic partner who understands event goals, audience engagement, and how to translate live experiences into compelling digital content.
Tips for Successful Event Planning at KICC
To ensure a seamless event at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, consider the following tips:
- Book Early: KICC is highly sought-after; secure your dates well in advance.
- Define Your Layout Needs: With many halls and rooms, plan your attendee flow and seating arrangements based on expected audience size.
- Plan Technical Logistics: Work with your event coverage partner like G6Image early to design camera positions, internet requirements, lighting, and audio setups.
- Use On-Site Visitor Services: Amenities like Wi-Fi, business centres, and lounges help create a professional and comfortable attendee experience.
- Coordinate with Venue Staff: KICC offers AV equipment and support; align with their team for equipment and setup requirements.
Contact Details and Practical Information
If you’re planning an event at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, here’s how you can contact the venue directly:
- Address: Harambee Avenue, Nairobi, Kenya
- Phone: +254 20 3261000
- Email: info@kicc.co.ke / sales@kicc.co.ke
- Opening Hours: Typically 08:00 – 18:00 daily
Conclusion
The Kenyatta International Convention Centre remains one of Africa’s premier venues for meetings, conferences, exhibitions, and high-impact events. Its legacy, location, range of facilities, and cultural significance make it a trusted choice for both local and international planners.
However, to truly elevate your event particularly in media coverage, audience reach, and production quality partnering with a professional event coverage company like G6Image is essential. G6Image brings world-class media production capabilities, live streaming expertise, and event documentation solutions tailored to the demands of KICC events. Explore their services here
Whether you’re hosting a global summit, a corporate launch, or a hybrid conference, this venue paired with expert coverage ensures your event will be executed with excellence, professionalism, and impact.
