The Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) is an architectural marvel located at the heart of Nairobi. This towering cylindrical structure is easily recognizable and hard to miss on the city’s skyline.
As someone who grew up in rural Kenya and later moved to Nairobi for school, work, or business, KICC holds a special place in my heart.
Nairobi is known as the land of opportunity, and if you had a friend or relative show you around the city, they would undoubtedly introduce you to KICC first. The building serves as a guiding beacon in Nairobi’s urban jungle, helping us find our way home when we’re lost or disoriented.
But KICC is more than just a landmark; it’s a symbol of Kenya’s growth, ambition, and potential. In this blog post, Kendirita Tours explores some of the sights and wonders that make KICC such an iconic and fascinating structure.
From Kenya’s Independence to Date: A Brief History of KICC
Designed by Karl Henrik Nøstvik and Partners, a Norwegian architectural company with Karl Henrik Nøstvik as the lead architect, KICC was commissioned by Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, the first president of Kenya, shortly after the country gained independence from British colonial rule in 1963.
The aim was to create a landmark building that would represent Kenya’s progress and development as a newly independent country. KICC was built to serve as a venue for international conferences and other high-profile events while showcasing Kenya’s culture and heritage.
The construction of KICC began in 1967, and the building officially opened to the public on September 10th, 1973, just a decade after independence. Although it is no longer the tallest building in Nairobi, KICC remains an iconic symbol of Kenya’s self-rule and ambitious spirit.
The Cylindrical Wonder: Exploring KICC’s Stunning Architecture
One of KICC’s most striking features is its cylindrical tower, which rises 105 meters above the ground in its brown terracotta grandeur. This 28-story marvel of architecture pays tribute to Kenya’s cultural heritage and is a stunning example of what happens when art meets engineering.
The building is surrounded by prominent neighbours, including City Hall and the Holy Family Basilica to the North, parliament buildings to the west, the Office of the President to the south, and the Supreme Court to the east.
The tower’s exterior features intricate patterns and motifs inspired by Kenya’s rich cultural heritage, creating a magnificent visual display that pays tribute to the country’s artistic legacy. KICC’s design is a remarkable fusion of modern engineering and traditional African art, making it a unique and fascinating structure.
Conferences, View Tower, and More: The Surprising Uses of KICC’s Versatile Spaces
KICC’s role as the premier conference center in Africa cannot be understated. The building has a total floor space of over 28,000 square meters, which includes government offices, event spaces for hire, restaurants, and shops.
The venue has been used for a wide variety of purposes, from fashion shows to product launches to film shoots. In 2018, the world-renowned Kenyan Band, Sauti Sol, launched their “Live and Die In Africa” album with an electrifying concert held at the KICC.
The building’s versatility and flexibility make it an ideal space for all kinds of creative and innovative events.
The Helipad
From the KICC helipad, you can behold panoramic views of Nairobi’s skyline that will simply take your breath away. As you step out onto the helipad, the first thing that strikes you is the sheer magnitude of the sprawling cityscape that stretches out before you.
From so high above the city, the traffic below flows like a river, weaving in and out of streets and landmarks that surround Nairobi. I found the helipad pleasantly quiet, offering me silent moments of reflection, especially so on an early weekday morning.
The natural beauty that surrounds Nairobi is equally stunning as the Ngong Hills rise majestically in the distance. It’s open to visitors daily from 9 am to 8 pm on weekdays and from 9 am to 6 pm on weekends.
To access the helipad, you will need to pay Kes. 200 for Kenyan citizens and Kes. 500 (in M-pesa only) for international visitors, while children pay 50% less. Carry your ID or passport for identification.
The kind staff at KICC will guide you through the entire process from security checks and the payment process to the service lifts. You will alight on the 27th floor, then take the stairs four floors up to the helipad.
KICC in the World’s Spotlight: Memorable Moments
Over the years, KICC has been the site of many historic and memorable moments. From hosting the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development in 1976, the African Union Summit of 1981 and 1987, to the Sustainable Blue Economy Conference in 2018.
The building has provided a stage for some of the world’s most influential and celebrated figures over the decades, cementing its reputation as a symbol of Kenya’s growth and potential. As we look to the future, KICC remains a must-see tourist destination for anyone visiting Nairobi.
Whether you’re exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage or admiring its stunning skyline from the helipad, KICC has something to offer everyone.
If you’re planning a trip to Nairobi, be sure to reach out to Kendirita Tours and Travel Ltd for all your travel needs and visa processing. Let us help you make your visit to KICC and Kenya unforgettable.
Writer: Winnie Wekesa