NAIROBI, Kenya, Sept 10 – Kenya is hosting the 2025 Africa MICE Summit in Nairobi, bringing together global leaders, policymakers, and industry players to explore the role of business events in driving trade, investment, and economic growth across the continent.
The three-day summit, running from September 9 to 11 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), is themed “Catalyzing Trade and Investment Through Business Events.” It features panel discussions, keynote speeches, wellness sessions, and an awards gala.
Organizers say the summit aims to position Africa’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry as a key enabler of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
PS Tourism and Wildlife John Ololtuaa, speaking on behalf of Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, said Kenya is deliberately diversifying beyond leisure tourism to boost business tourism.
“Tourism is one of Kenya’s economic pillars. As we expand, MICE offers opportunities where business meets culture and where global ideas find a home with an African touch,” Ololtuaa said.
The government says it is upgrading venues and infrastructure, improving air connectivity, launching a digital MICE portal, and rolling out sustainability standards to strengthen Kenya’s position as a hub for international events.
Convenor Kezy Mukiri, CEO of Zuri Events, noted that the AfCFTA’s 1.4 billion people present a market where MICE can unlock cross-border trade and innovation.
The discussions at the summit are anchored on three themes: sustainability, technology, and people. Organizers say these will drive Africa’s competitiveness in the global events industry.
The summit coincides with Africa’s Meetings Industry Day, observed annually on September 9 to highlight the sector’s role in tourism and economic development. It will close with the Africa MICE Awards Gala on Thursday, September 11, celebrating excellence in the industry.
