Alfred Mutua appoints James Mbugua new KICC CEO
Tourism Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua has appointed James Mbugua Mwaura as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) for a tenure of three years.
In a gazette notice dated March 25, 2025, Mutua said Mbugua would assume office on Tuesday, March 26, 2024.
"In exercise of the powers conferred under section 48 (1) of the Tourism Act, 2011, the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife appoints- James Mbugia Mwaura to be the Chief Executive Officer of the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, for three (3) years, with effect from the 26th March 2024 Dated the 25th March 2024," the notice read in part.
Mwaura's primary responsibility will be to lead efforts in boosting Kenya's conference tourism sector and establishing the country as a preferred global destination for meetings.
“Mwaura will be tasked with spearheading Kenya’s conference tourism and positioning the destination globally as a preferred meeting destination of choice. His extensive knowledge on Conference Tourism also known as Meetings, Incentives Travel, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) matters will enable him to lead the corporation in enhancing its competitiveness,” the gazette notice added.
Former KICC CEO
Nana Wanjiku Gecaga concluded her seven-year tenure as CEO of KICC in 2022, expressing her heartfelt appreciation to her superiors for their integral role in her accomplishments during her leadership at the organization.
“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. December 29, 2022, I ended my 7 years of duty as KICC CEO and 14 years in government and successfully served three presidents of Kenya and 26 years altogether in the hospitality industry.
“I want to thank my CS Madam Peninah Malonza. I wish to thank my PS Ummi Bashir, my Chair and my entire board and of course the entire staff at KICC,” Gecaga wrote.
Gecaga also sent her warm wishes to her successor.
“Lastly, I would like to thank all the stakeholders local and International who have contributed to the success of the last 7 years and I ask that you continue to support and walk with the new Acting CEO Madam Patricia Ondeng. It has been a real honour and privilege to serve as CEO and thank you. Congratulations to the new acting CEO Madam Patricia Ondeng and wish you all success and well done.”
Patricia Ondeng has been the acting CEO of the Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC) since January 2023.
