KICC to unveil Ksh.100M dancing fountains to enhance tourism, boost Nairobi's global appeal

This spectacular water and light show, synchronized to Kenyan cultural music, is set to transform KICC into a dynamic attraction, enhancing both its legacy and the city’s global appeal.

Since its establishment on September 11, 1973, KICC has remained an iconic landmark in Kenya, consistently evolving to maintain its status as a premier destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE).

Over the past 52 years, the facility has witnessed numerous innovations, both internally and externally. The installation of the Dancing Fountains marks a significant milestone in this journey, reinforcing KICC’s commitment to offering world-class experiences.

Geoffrey Thande, Director of Business Development says that the fountains will be designed with cutting-edge technology, advanced robotics and artificial intelligence, enabling the water jets to move in perfect harmony with traditional and contemporary Kenyan music. The vision, he says, will be attracting both local and international visitors and boosting Nairobi’s profile as a global tourism and conference destination.

“It will be the first in Africa, and we believe that this innovation and this launch will take us to the next level. Matters Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE), International meetings, and the wider tourism sector will be able to contribute, to the tourism numbers for this country,” he told Citizen Digital.

Thande added that the main aim of this project is to provide an exceptional experience for delegates attending conferences, exhibitions, and corporate events, serving as an additional attraction, and offering a visually stunning and culturally immersive experience.

”The project has been developed at an estimated cost of Ksh.100 million, and it has been designed with sustainability in mind and will be available as part of event packages, allowing businesses and event organisers to incorporate the mesmerising display into their programs,” Thande asserted.

The launch of the Dancing Fountains is just the beginning of the transformation. Mr Thande mentioned that KICC is also working on restoring its legendary revolving restaurant, with discussions ongoing to bring in investors to develop a modern dining experience.

Additionally, the KICC tower is set to be transformed into a digital advertising platform, providing businesses with a high-visibility space to showcase their brands.

“In collaboration with Nairobi County, certain streets around KICC will be closed on select evenings, allowing the public to gather and enjoy the captivating water displays, accompanied by vendors selling food and drinks,” he said.

Technical Service Manager Robert Davis Ochieng mentioned that the fountains will use a closed-loop water system that requires replenishment every six months, significantly reducing water wastage.

“The entire installation will be powered by solar energy, ensuring environmental responsibility while maintaining operational efficiency,” he added.

He further went on to state that, in recognition of KICC’s rich history, the original fountains, which date back to 1973, will be preserved and they will continue to operate during the daytime for conferences and exhibitions, while the new Dancing Fountains will take centre stage in the evenings, offering an enhanced entertainment experience.

A confident Ochieng went as far as to state the dancing fountains would be better than the world-famous Burj Khalifa water fountains in Dubai.