Kenya's political scene is currently active, following the announcement of the NASA Coalition power-sharing deal. Typically, election years slow down the economy due to investor uncertainty.
However, the country has seen an increase in high-level strategy meetings across the nation. Since the visits by former US President Barack Obama and the Pope last year, Kenya has become a top destination for tourists and conferences.
In 2017, being an election year, the hospitality industry has experienced even greater opportunities. Politicians and businesspeople are holding secret consultative and strategic planning meetings with their teams and other stakeholders.
Nairobi was named the leading African meetings and conference destination at the World Travel Awards. Kenya was also ranked the second-most popular meetings destination in sub-Saharan Africa, after South Africa, in the International Congress and Convention Association world rankings.
The conferences attended by top-level international delegates have raised the country's profile in the meetings, incentives, conferences, and events (MICE) sector. Many hotels have diversified to domestic and regional conference tourism, enjoying brisk business since the beginning of the year.
Occupancy rates have averaged 78% since January, compared to 60% in the same period last year. A large number of visitors from neighboring countries, including Tanzania, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Uganda, have been visiting the country, increasing the benefits derived from corporate meetings.
According to Mohammed Hersi, "Ethiopia is a lucrative market for us, with a population of over 80 million." He also noted that about 30% of visitors are from Europe, as well as expatriates.
Hotels are recording 70-75% occupancy, which is a significant boost for business. Some hotels are recording up to 92% occupancy thanks to conferences, with guest numbers averaging 80% this month, compared to 50% the same month last year.
Guests are attracted to hotels with proper accommodation, well-equipped meeting rooms, high-speed WiFi, and audiovisual services. The Convent International Guest House, located in the leafy suburb of Lavington, offers state-of-the-art conferencing facilities that can accommodate up to 100 people.
A manager from the Convent International Guest House stated, "Professional and instinctive service makes for memorable functions." The hotel provides free wireless and cabled web connections, drinks, and catering, as well as secure parking.
Following a tourism downturn in 2014, hoteliers diversified to conference tourism, which has paid off. They expect a record 80% occupancy next month, boosted by local and regional conferences such as the upcoming Sustainable Properties Africa Conference and Exhibition (SPACE) in June.
The Convent International Guest House offers state-of-the-art standard and executive rooms, with amenities such as a mini-bar, microwave, and electric kettle. The hotel prides itself on providing comfort, convenience, and excellent service in a quiet and serene environment.
