The Government of Kenya has approved the revival of the Kenya National Convention Bureau, marking its re-establishment after being disbanded three years ago due to funding constraints. The decision was endorsed on 15 December 2025 during a Cabinet meeting chaired by William Ruto at State House.
The approval clears the way for the Bureau’s operationalisation as part of Kenya’s preparations for hosting the COMESA–EAC–SADC Tripartite Summit in mid-2026. According to a Cabinet statement, the Bureau will be responsible for coordinating the planning, marketing, and development of Kenya’s international conventions and events sector, with the aim of maximising economic and diplomatic outcomes.
Kenya is currently ranked fourth in Africa for meetings and business events, behind Rwanda, South Africa, and Morocco. The reactivation of the Bureau signals renewed government focus on strengthening the country’s position within the regional and international MICE landscape. While details regarding the Bureau’s funding model and organisational structure have not yet been outlined, the move creates an opportunity to advance the Kenya National MICE Strategy 2030, which was developed in 2021 and adopted by the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife.
The Cabinet noted that the rollout aligns with broader national priorities, including attracting investment, enhancing Kenya’s international profile, and supporting employment growth through the MICE sector. Preparations for the 2026 summit are underway, with a National Organising Committee inaugurated in Naivasha on 5 November to oversee strategic, technical, and logistical coordination.
