President William Ruto has removed Irungu Nyakera from his position as chairperson of the Kenya International Convention Centre (KICC) board. The decision comes months after Nyakera outlined his plans to boost Kenya’s position in the global Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry.
Nyakera’s Vision for KICC
During an August tour of KICC with CEO James Mwaura, Nyakera spoke about his goal of enhancing the convention centre’s role in Kenya’s tourism sector. He stressed the need to make KICC more competitive in attracting international business events, a fast-growing segment of the global tourism industry.
Nyakera’s strategy focused on positioning KICC as a leading venue for conferences and exhibitions in Africa. He aimed to rival top destinations such as Kigali, Rwanda, and Cape Town, South Africa. His plans included upgrading facilities and strengthening Kenya’s ability to attract major international events.
Unclear Reasons for Dismissal
The government has not yet provided a detailed explanation for Nyakera’s removal. However, leadership changes in state corporations are common as new administrations adjust boards to align with their policies.
Nyakera’s exit raises questions about the future direction of KICC and whether his plans to expand Kenya’s MICE sector will continue under new leadership. The government is expected to announce a replacement soon.
KICC plays a crucial role in Kenya’s economy by attracting international conferences, exhibitions, and business events. The leadership transition will be closely watched by stakeholders in the tourism and events industry.
News
How Balkan Crime Groups Rose to Power in South America's Drug Trade
Over the past two decades, crime groups from the Western Balkans have become key players in South America’s cocaine trade, building strong global networks.
Ethiopia, Uganda Resume Joint Ministerial Talks After Six Years
Ethiopia and Uganda have reconvened their Joint Ministerial Commission after a six-year break, aiming to strengthen cooperation in key areas such as trade, security, and diplomacy.
IG Kanja Defends Presence at Ruto’s Nyeri Rally, Dismisses LSK Claims
Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome Kanja has defended his presence at President William Ruto’s rally in Nyeri, dismissing claims by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) that his attendance was inappropriate.
Trade CS Kinyanjui Explains Impact of U.S. 10% Export Tariff on Kenya
Kenya’s Trade Cabinet Secretary (CS) has addressed concerns over the new 10% export tariff imposed by the United States, explaining what it means for the country’s trade sector.
Kwale Governor Blocks Illegal Sale of Historic Kongo Mosque Land
Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani has halted an illegal attempt to sell the 18-acre land surrounding the historic Kongo Mosque, a move welcomed by conservationists and religious leaders.
Sakaja Extends Nairobi Land Rates Payment Deadline to April 15
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has extended the deadline for land rates payments to April 15, 2025, giving property owners more time to settle their dues without facing penalties.
Kenyan Woman Arrested in Mumbai with Cocaine Worth KSh 270M
A 43-year-old Kenyan woman, Emily Kannin Rodha, was arrested in Mumbai on April 1, 2025, for attempting to smuggle 1.7 kg of cocaine valued at approximately KSh 270 million.
Myanmar Earthquake Death Toll Reaches 3,085 Amid Search Efforts
The death toll from the powerful earthquake that struck Myanmar last week has risen to 3,085, with search and rescue teams continuing to recover bodies.
Taliban Seeks $100 Million from World Bank to Restart CASA-1000 Project
Afghanistan’s Taliban administration is awaiting the transfer of $100 million from the World Bank to resume work on the Afghan section of the CASA-1000 electricity transmission project, which aims to connect Central Asia with South Asia.
Turkey Moves to Take Control of Syria's T4 Air Base Amid Tensions
Turkey is reportedly taking steps to gain control of Syria's Tiyas air base, also known as T4, to enhance its military presence in the region.
Fire on Lagos Ferry Injures Four Passengers, All Evacuated Safely
A fire broke out on a ferry at the Ipakodo Ferry Terminal in Ikorodu, Lagos State, on Thursday, injuring four passengers.
Kenya to Challenge Court Ruling Blocking School Fee Payments on eCitizen
The government plans to appeal a court ruling that blocked the use of the eCitizen platform for paying school fees, arguing that the system was introduced to enhance transparency and accountability in fee collection.
Mudavadi: Kenya Gets 20 South Sudanese Refugees Every Day
Kenya receives about 20 refugees from South Sudan daily, a situation that is straining the country’s resources and presenting new challenges for the Foreign Affairs Ministry, according to Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.
Nigeria Immigration Arrests 51 Malians Over Irregular Entry
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has arrested 51 irregular migrants from Mali in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.
DR Congo Overturns Death Sentences for Three Americans in Coup Plot
Three Americans convicted for their involvement in a failed coup attempt in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) have had their death sentences reduced to life imprisonment, according to the country's presidency.