James Mwaura appointed as the new KICC CEO replacing Nana Gecaga

James Mwaura has been appointed the new Chief Executive Officer of Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).

Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua said the appointment takes effect from March 16, 2024.

“Mwaura will be tasked with spearheading Kenya’s conference tourism and positioning the destination globally as a preferred meetings destination of choice,” Mutua said.

Mwaura takes over after the position was left vacant following the exit of Nana Gecaga on December 29, 2022, after seven years at the helm.

“In life, everything happens for a reason and a season. One of my seasons has come to an end while my next season is just starting,” Gecaga said in her farewell message.

Gecaga had served as the CEO of the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), from April 1, 2016.

Upon her exit, Patricia Ondeng was on December 31, 2022, appointed to serve in the position in an acting capacity.

Mwaura holds an MBA in Finance and a BBA (Accounting and Finance), an LLB, CPA (K) as well as CPS (K).

Mwaura has over 19 years of experience in Finance, Accounting, Banking, Administration and Corporate Governance in the public and private sector.

Mutua said he is expected to use his experience and expertise in the public and private sectors to position KICC and Kenya beyond conferencing.

This, he said, is expected to translate to revenue growth for the Corporation. 

“His extensive knowledge of Conference Tourism also known as Meetings, Incentives Travel, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) matters will enable him lead the corporation in enhancing its competitiveness,” the CS said.

KICC is the largest Convention Centre in Eastern Africa with the capacity to hold over 10,000 delegates.