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Bomas of Kenya
President William Ruto announced on Tuesday, March 11, that construction of the Bomas International Convention Complex in Bomas of Kenya is set to begin in two weeks, despite growing public scrutiny of the national heritage site.
According to a Cabinet statement, Ruto highlighted that the project aimed to upgrade the building to world-class standards.
“The President confirmed that construction of the Bomas International Convention Complex will begin in two weeks, marking a significant step in the government’s plan to transform the facility into a world-class conferencing hub,” the statement read.
“The project seeks to redefine the look, feel, and purpose of Bomas, positioning it as a premier destination for global events,” it continued.
Bomas of Kenya
An image of the interior of Bomas of Kenya. Photo: naturaltoursandsafaris
This announcement follows former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s claim that the Bomas of Kenya was being sold to a Turkish national, a statement the government denied.
On Sunday, March 9, Gachagua controversially asserted that the sale of the historic site had been approved by the Cabinet.
Speaking at the ACK Holy Trinity Church in Kitengela, Kajiado County, Gachagua said that despite the Cabinet’s alleged approval, he was the only one who opposed the move.
Gachagua also claimed that the government had disregarded concerns from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), which reportedly warned that the revamp of Bomas of Kenya could pose a safety risk due to its location within a critical flight path.
The former Deputy President further alleged that the Turkish businessman involved had close ties with a senior government official.
In response, on Monday, March 10, Ummi Bashir, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Culture and Arts, denied these claims, asserting that the national heritage site had not been sold.
Gachagua’s allegations emerged amid ongoing questions about the ongoing works at Bomas, with some suggesting the project was being led by a foreign investor.
Refuting these claims, Bashir clarified that the facility’s upgrades had been planned since 2023, following Cabinet approval.
“The idea of refurbishing and upgrading Bomas of Kenya has been considered for the past 10 years. However, it is the current administration that has driven it toward realization. The Bomas of Kenya holds a valid title deed issued in 1971,” Bashir added
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