President William Ruto has announced plans for the next phase of the redevelopment of Bomas of Kenya, unveiling an ambitious expansion that will include the construction of three hotels, a shopping mall and a modern indoor arena once the ongoing convention complex is completed.

The President made the announcement on Thursday during an inspection tour of the Bomas International Convention Complex in Nairobi, where he reviewed progress on the multi-billion-shilling project that the government says is intended to transform the facility into a regional hub for conferences, exhibitions and cultural events.

Speaking to workers at the site, Ruto said the government had already planned a second phase of development that would immediately follow the completion of the convention centre. He said the additional facilities are expected to expand the country’s capacity to host international meetings while supporting tourism, trade and the creative economy.

According to the President, the planned hotels will provide accommodation for delegates attending international conferences, while the shopping mall will create commercial opportunities for businesses operating within the complex. The proposed indoor arena is expected to host sporting events, concerts, exhibitions and other large-scale indoor gatherings, broadening the range of activities that can be accommodated at the venue.

Ruto also assured workers currently involved in the construction that employment opportunities would continue beyond the completion of the convention centre. He said the commencement of the second phase would ensure continuity of work as the government advances its broader vision for the Bomas redevelopment project.

The ongoing redevelopment is among the government’s flagship infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening Kenya’s position as a preferred destination for international conferences and business tourism. Officials say the expanded facility is expected to complement existing conference infrastructure and enhance the country’s competitiveness in attracting regional and global events.

The inspection came on the same day Kenyans marked the second anniversary of the June 25, 2024 anti-government protests through nationwide memorial demonstrations. While security agencies maintained heightened deployments in several towns to monitor the commemorative protests, the President proceeded with the scheduled inspection of the Bomas project, drawing public attention because of the timing of the visit.

The redevelopment of Bomas of Kenya has remained under public scrutiny since it was announced. The project has generated debate over its cost, procurement process and long-term economic value, prompting parliamentary oversight and public interest in its implementation.

Originally established in 1971 to preserve and showcase Kenya’s cultural heritage, Bomas of Kenya has for decades served as a venue for cultural performances, conferences and national events. The government’s redevelopment plan seeks to modernise the facility while retaining its cultural significance, positioning it as a world-class convention and entertainment destination.

Once completed, the expanded Bomas complex is expected to accommodate larger international conferences, exhibitions, trade fairs and entertainment events, significantly increasing the country’s capacity to host high-profile regional and global gatherings.

The government has maintained that the project forms part of its broader infrastructure and tourism development agenda, with officials expressing confidence that the investment will strengthen Kenya’s meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) sector while creating employment and supporting economic activity around the capital.