Africa’s Leading MICE Cities to Watch in 2025: Powering Business Tourism Across the Continent

Africa is entering a new era in business tourism, driven by the rapidly evolving MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry. From the bustling streets of Nairobi to the modern skyline of Kigali and the global flair of Cape Town, cities across Africa are positioning themselves as competitive, compelling destinations for global gatherings.

The MICE sector connects investors with opportunities, policymakers with ideas, and businesses with new markets. Its development not only fosters economic growth but also enhances Africa's visibility and attractiveness on the global stage. (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry. From the bustling streets of Nairobi to the modern skyline of Kigali and the global flair of Cape Town, cities across Africa are positioning themselves as competitive, compelling destinations for global gatherings. The MICE sector connects investors with opportunities, policymakers with ideas, and businesses with new markets.

1. Cape Town, South Africa - The Continent’s MICE Powerhouse

Cape Town has long been recognized as a premier destination for conferences and international events. The city benefits from a strong tourism foundation, reliable infrastructure, and robust hospitality services.

- Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) hosted over 500 events in 2023, ranging from trade expos to global health and academic conferences. The center's expansion has doubled its capacity in recent years.

- South Africa’s MICE industry is valued at over $7 billion annually, accounting for a significant portion of the country’s tourism GDP.

- Cape Town International Airport is among Africa's busiest, handling more than 10 million passengers a year, with direct flights to key global cities.

- The city offers over 20,000 hotel rooms, award-winning restaurants, cultural heritage sites, and breathtaking natural attractions, making it an all-round destination for business and leisure.

2. Kigali, Rwanda - Africa’s Rising Star

Kigali has rapidly positioned itself as a model city for MICE events, emphasizing security, efficiency, and innovation.

- Kigali Convention Centre is one of the most technologically advanced venues in East Africa. In 2023, it hosted over 250 events, including the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

- Rwanda's government has made MICE a national priority, with $60 million in MICE revenue in 2022, expected to surpass $80 million by 2025.

- Kigali's clean and green image, combined with e-visa access for many countries, enhances its appeal.

- The city boasts world-class hotels, including brands like Marriott, Radisson Blu, and Serena, and features reliable internet connectivity and security.

3. Nairobi, Kenya - Gateway to East Africa

Nairobi stands as one of the most established MICE destinations in Africa, offering a strategic location and a robust business environment.

- Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) is an iconic venue that hosts over 100 major events annually, including the UN-Habitat Assembly and international trade fairs.

- Kenya's MICE market is valued at approximately $1.2 billion, with the government incorporating MICE growth into its Vision 2030 economic development plan.

- The opening of the Nairobi Expressway has dramatically reduced travel time from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to the CBD, easing access for international delegates.

- Nairobi is home to over 10,000 quality hotel rooms, a thriving tech scene, and multiple airlines offering connections to all parts of the continent and beyond.

4. Accra, Ghana - The Emerging West African Beacon

Accra is gaining recognition as a business tourism hub in West Africa, with targeted government investment and cultural relevance.

- The capital city hosted over 80 international conferences in 2023, driven by its stable political environment and strategic Atlantic location.

- Kotoka International Airport underwent a major upgrade and now supports 5 million passengers annually, providing greater ease for international travelers.

- The "Beyond the Return" initiative, following the Year of Return in 2019, continues to attract the diaspora and global events, generating over $3.3 billion.

- Accra features luxury accommodations, cultural sites like Jamestown and Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, and dynamic nightlife, making it a well-rounded destination.

5. Other Notable MICE Hubs

Across Africa, several other cities are quickly becoming MICE-ready with improved infrastructure and international exposure.

- Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, hosts over 70% of AU-related MICE traffic, driven by its status as the African Union's headquarters and home to UNECA.

- Marrakech and Casablanca in Morocco have proven their capacity to host mega-events such as COP22 and the IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings, with investments in luxury venues and hospitality.

- Lagos, Nigeria, remains West Africa's most populous city and commercial powerhouse, attracting over 1 million annual MICE travelers. New convention centers and luxury hotels are elevating its position.

Africa's growing prominence in the global MICE arena is a testament to the continent's resilience, innovation, and commitment to economic transformation through business tourism. As infrastructure improves and global interest increases, these cities are set to become the heartbeat of global business engagement in Africa. This upward trend signals vast opportunities for investors looking to tap into Africa’s burgeoning events industry and for event planners seeking new, dynamic destinations that blend growth potential with cultural richness. is a testament to the continent's resilience, innovation, and commitment to economic transformation through business tourism. As infrastructure improves and global interest increases, these cities are set to become the heartbeat of global business engagement in Africa.