Kenya urged to exploit conference tourism

Kenya has been asked to give the meetings, incentives, conferences and events (MICE) sector the attention it deserves in order to reap maximum benefits.

According the latest research by Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF), the potential for MICE in Kenya’s economy is huge yet the State is investing little in the segment.

A case in point is AHIF itself, which its chairman, Jonathan Worsley, says is highly transformative to the host countries. “Looking back over the history of AHIF since the first conference in Casablanca in 2011, the event has made an impact on the local host economies with $21.24 million (Sh2.2 billion),”Mr Worsley said.

“In doing so, it has helped to create or sustain over 6,000 jobs and generate $1.4 million (Sh140 million) in tax to the government of the host country.”

The AHIF report also highlights intangible benefits that could accrue from hosting a high-level event. These include increased awareness of the destination’s conference and tourism offering, improved credentials which would assist bidding for future events and employment opportunities and skills transfer.