Kenyatta International Convention Center (KICC) is one of Nairobi’s most recognizable architectural symbols, with its images used to refer to the capital.
It represents Kenya’s ambition as a regional hub for diplomacy, business and international conferences.
The landmark building, which dominates Nairobi’s skyline, was designed through the collaboration of Kenyan architect David Mutiso and Norwegian architect Karl Henrik Nøstvik after independence.
The building is a government-owned facility under a State corporation under the Tourism Act, mandated to promote Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE).
Since its completion in 1973, KICC has hosted major global events and international leaders and has become a feature of Kenya’s capital city.
Vision Behind KICC’s Design and Construction
Idea of constructing KICC emerged during Kenya’s post-independence years when the country sought to establish itself as a center for international engagement and economic growth.
The government wanted a modern facility capable of hosting large-scale conferences and attracting global organizations to Nairobi.
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KICC building was designed by David Mutiso, one of Kenya’s pioneering architects, alongside Norwegian architect Karl Henrik Nøstvik. Their design incorporated modernist architectural principles while drawing inspiration from African forms and Kenya’s growing national identity.
Construction began in 1967, with the project taking several years before it was officially opened on September 11, 1973 by President Jomo Kenyatta officially opened the building on 11 September 1973.
At the time of its completion, KICC was the tallest building in Nairobi before being surpassed by the Teleposter building.
The tower’s circular structure was a key design feature, giving it a unique appearance compared to conventional rectangular office buildings. The cylindrical shape also allowed the building to stand out as a landmark visible from different parts of Nairobi.
Architectural Features That Made KICC Stand Out
KICC’s design reflects a combination of functionality, symbolism and engineering. The main tower rises 105 meters above the ground and consists of 32 floors, with its distinctive circular shape becoming one of its most defining characteristics.
KICC has a rooftop helipad, which provides panoramic views of Nairobi and is a popular attraction for visitors.
The building also includes a large plenary hall, meeting rooms, exhibition spaces, and an outdoor amphitheater.
After opening, KICC quickly became a major venue for international meetings and diplomatic gatherings.
One of its earliest major events was hosting the Annual Meetings of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Over the years, the center has hosted numerous high-profile meetings involving governments, international organizations, businesses and development partners. Events held at KICC have included United Nations-related conferences, trade forums and regional summits involving African and global leaders.
Beyond conferences, KICC has also served as a venue for exhibitions, cultural events, business forums and national celebrations. Its location in Nairobi’s central business district has made it easily accessible for delegates visiting from across Kenya and around the world.
Pricing Structure for KICC Venues
KICC pricing is structured based on the type of event, venue size, and duration of use.
Charges are generally divided into conference rates, exhibition rates, and concert or outdoor event rates.
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KICC rates for Conferences and Meetings
| Facility | Size (SQ. Metres) | Rates (KSh) Excl. Tax & Service Charge | Rates (KSh) Incl. 10% Service Charge & VAT |
| Tsavo Ballroom | 2,444 | 337,629 | 430,814.60 |
| Tsavo A | 1,400 | 250,000 | 319,000 |
| Tsavo B | 1,044 | 200,000 | 255,200 |
| Amphitheatre | 2,666 | 185,440 | 236,621.44 |
| Aberdares Hall | 355 | 92,446 | 117,961.09 |
| Lenana Hall | 295 | 84,042 | 107,237.59 |
| Impala Room | 140.5 | 25,000 | 31,900 |
| Lake Turkana Room | 140.5 | 25,000 | 31,900 |
| Shimba Hills Room | 205.41 | 60,000 | 76,560 |
| Taifa Room | 285 | 35,000 | 44,660 |
| VIP Lounge | 100 | 120,000 | 153,120 |
| Batian Room | 40 | 18,000 | 22,968 |
| Courtyard | 7,056 | 130,000 | 165,880 |
| Upper COMESA | 5,497 | 216,000 | 275,616 |
| Lower COMESA | 6,057 | 216,000 | 275,616 |
| Raised Tree Area | 6,450 | 100,000 | 127,600 |
| The Lawns | 7,500 | 130,000 | 165,880 |
| Delegates Lounge | 806 | 54,000 | 68,904 |
| Amphi-foyer | 1,659 | 45,000 | 57,420 |
| Bilateral Rooms | 6 | 60,000 | 76,560 |
KICC Rates for Exhibitions
| Facility | Size (SQ. Metres) | Rates (KShs) Excl. Tax | Rates (KShs) Incl. 10% Service Charge & VAT |
| Tsavo Ballroom | 2,444 | 450,000 | 574,200 |
| Lenana Hall | 295 | 190,000 | 242,440 |
| Aberdares Room | 295 | 190,000 | 242,440 |
| Courtyard | 7,056 | 200,000 | 255,200 |
| Upper COMESA | 5,497 | 200,000 | 242,440 |
| Lower COMESA | 6,057 | 200,000 | 242,440 |
| The Lawns | 7,500 | 200,000 | 242,440 |
KICC Rates for Concerts
| Facility | Size (SQ. Metres) | Rates (KSh) Excl. Tax | Rates (KSh) Incl. 10% Service Charge & VAT |
| Tsavo Ballroom | 2,444 | 400,000 | 510,400 |
| Courtyard | 7,056 | 200,000 | 255,200 |
| Upper COMESA | 5,497 | 200,000 | 255,200 |
| Lower COMESA | 6,057 | 200,000 | 255,200 |
| The Lawns | 7,500 | 200,000 | 255,200 |
| Tower Block (3D Advertising) | – | 320,000 | 408,320 |
KICC View Towe Charges
| Category | Charges |
| Adults (East African Citizens and Residents) | KSh 200 |
| Adults (Non-Resident) | USD 5 |
| School Package (Primary and below – East African Citizens and Residents) | KSh 50 |
| Non-Resident Children (Under 12 years) | USD 3 |
| Secondary School (East African Citizens and Residents) | KSh 50 |
| Non-Resident Students (with proof) | USD 3 |
KICC Helipad Charges
| Service | Rate | Additional Charges |
| Helipad Events / Functions (Max 4 hours) | KSh 60,000 | – |
| Helicopter Landing | KSh 20,000 per landing | KSh 1,000 per extra hour |
| Wedding Photo Shoot (first 10 adults) | KSh 10,000 | KSh 100 per extra adult |
| Filming – Moving Pictures | KSh 25,000 | – |
| Commercial Photo Shoot | KSh 7,500 | – |
(NOTE: These charges periodically change and are only valid at the time of publication).
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