State lacks clear plan for Bomas of Kenya refurbishment, report

State lacks clear plan for Bomas of Kenya refurbishment, report
Kenya's Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) officials inspect electoral documents at the Bomas of Kenya in Nairobi, Kenya, Aug. 11, 2022.

Nairobi, Kenya – Days after President William Ruto approved the refurbishment of Bomas of Kenya, a new report by the Liaison Committee has revealed that the State has yet to provide clear guidelines on how to kickstart the project.

The committee’s Report on the Supplementary Estimates II for FY 2024/2025 notes that the State Department for Culture, Arts, and Heritage has not outlined key funding details, including projected costs, funding sources, and implementation timelines.

“The Bomas of Kenya is in the initial stages of constructing an ultra-modern conference facility. However, the State Department has not furnished the Committee with clear funding modalities for the project,” the report states.

On Tuesday, during a Cabinet meeting, President Ruto assured his ministers that construction of the Bomas International Complex would begin within the next two weeks. He termed the refurbishment a milestone project aimed at transforming Bomas into a world-class conferencing hub.

“The project will redefine the look, feel, and purpose of Bomas, positioning it as a premier destination for global events,” the President said.

The developments come amid speculation after former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua claimed that Bomas of Kenya had been sold to a Turkish national—an allegation the government has denied.