Govt responds to reports that Bomas of Kenya has been sold
The government has responded to reports that Bomas of Kenya has been sold to a Turkish national.
In a statement on Monday, March 10, 2025, Principal Secretary for Arts, Culture and Heritage Ummi Bashir refuted the reports, saying the facility is still under the government.
This follows allegations by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua who said the cabinet had already approved the sale of the facility. Gachagua made the allegations while speaking at the ACK Holy Trinity Church in Kitengela, Kajiado County on Sunday, March 9, 2025.
“As we speak, Bomas of Kenya has been sold to a Turkish national. The Cabinet was informed, and I was the only one who opposed it. I stood firm and said this is a national heritage; we cannot sell it,” Gachagua stated.
On the other hand, Bashir maintains that Bomas of Kenya has been placed under the State Department for Culture, the Arts and Heritage.
“By dint of Executive Order of Government No 2 of 2023, Bomas of Kenya was placed under the State Department for Culture, the Arts and Heritage. I am therefore shocked by the allegations made by the former Deputy President with regard with the sale of Bomas of Kenya to a Turkish national. The State Department for Culture, the Arts and Heritage stands to categorically refute this allegation. Bomas of Kenya has not been sold to anyone,” Bashir stated.
Bashir says the development of the Bomas International Convention Complex (BICC) was approved by Cabinet on August 8, 2023, after a Cabinet Memorandum presented by the then Cabinet Secretary for Tourism, Wildlife and Heritage Peninah Malonza.
“The idea of refurbishing and upgrading Bomas of Kenya is not new and has been in consideration for the past 10 years. Nevertheless, it is the current administration that has given impetus to its actualization. The Bomas of Kenya has a valid title in its name, issued in 1971. This title is in the Government’s custody. Through the Bomas International Convention Complex, the Government seeks to create a premium conferencing facility as part of a bold vision to rewrite the look, feel, and purpose of Bomas,” he added.
“The BICC will become the market leader in the region, with multiple conferencing venues that will be a quantum leap from the facilities that we have had for the past 50 years. The State Department for Culture, the Arts and Heritage assures the public that Bomas of Kenya will remain a Government facility. Its ownership shall not change, as it is held in trust on behalf of the People of the Republic of Kenya, for posterity.”
Itumbi speaks over Bomas of Kenya reports
Head of the Presidential Special Projects Dennis Itumbi has termed the allegations by Gachagua as false, reckless and deliberately misleading.
In a statement on March 10, 2025, Itumbi said the facility is being transformed into a world-class international conference and cultural centre.
“This ambitious modernization is not just necessary, but it is long overdue. Kenya is taking bold steps to position itself as Africa’s premier destination for high-level conferencing, entertainment, and cultural exhibitions, aligning with global standards to attract both regional and international events. Contrary to Gachagua’s deceptive statements, there has been no discussion, proposal, or intention to sell Bomas to any foreign entity. Instead, the government is investing in the facility’s expansion to include an 11,000-seater modern arena, providing a much-needed plug-and-play venue for Kenya’s thriving creative industry,” Itumbi stated.
Itumbis says the new facility will entail a commercial presidential villa street offering premium accommodation and amenities for high-level delegates and earning revenue for Kenya and a revitalized cultural hub, ensuring the preservation and promotion of Kenya’s rich heritage alongside modern development.
“Gachagua never opposed the modernization of Bomas. In fact, he is on record in Cabinet supporting its fast-tracking, acknowledging that it was unfortunate that such a premier facility had been neglected for decades,” Itumbi added.
Itumbi says the modernization of Bomas is a symbol of Kenya’s commitment to growth, innovation, and cultural excellence which will elevate the nation, create jobs and provide a platform for creatives and entrepreneurs.
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Francis Muli
Francis Muli is a passionate digital journalist with over seven years of experience in crafting compelling stories across various platforms. His major focus is in business, politics and current affairs. He brings a keen eye for detail and a commitment to uncovering the truth. He has contributed to leading publications across the country. When not chasing stories, you can find Muli exploring new technologies, attending local events, or reading fiction. Connect with Francis Muli on X @FMuliKE and Facebook (Francis Muli) to follow his latest stories and insights.
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