Hotels to accommodate 8,000 at Africities Summit
The Secretariat of the ninth edition of the Africities Summit has extended accreditation of hotels to the neighbouring counties in Kisumu to accommodate more than 8,000 delegates expected at the lakeside city.
The event's secretariat to kick off on Tuesday said it would consider facilities in Siaya, Vihiga and Kakamega counties.
Kisumu County Tourism executive Achie Alai said that the Africities secretariat has also identified and vetted individuals operating Airbnbs, homestays and serviced apartments as the city prepares for the first summit to be held in an intermediary city.
She said during the inaugural briefing at Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium, we are running out of space and are now forced to look outside Kisumu.
The registered Airbnb operators and homestays would increase their capacity to host a large number of guests, according to Ms Alai.
The security of the Nyanza regional commissioner Magu Mutindika assured the participants that security will be enhanced for the private residents that will host extra guests.
The operation will cover all corners of the region to ensure the security of guests, he said yesterday.
The expansion of Kisumu International Airport has boosted the preparations for the summit.
Fly Renegade Air Limited announced last week that return tickets will start from Sh 17,400, to cater for guests who will travel between Nairobi and Kisumu.
Africities shuttle flight package will operate between Wilson Airport and Kisumu International Airport.
6,000 delegates already registered to attend the meeting, as registration continues, according to Ms Alai. She said only accredited participants would be allowed to access the venue to ensure safety at the summit.
The renovated Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Sports Ground has been set aside by the organisers as an entertainment spot.
The United Cities and Local Governments of Africa's flagship Pan-African event held every three years in one of the five regions of Africa will be the biggest event Kisumu has ever hosted.
The summit attracts communities and local authorities in African countries, as well as financial institutions, civil society groups and development partners at continental and international levels.
Kisumu deputy governor Mathews Owili said the event would have a separate session for elders from across Africa at Mama Grace Onyango Hall.
He said that we are hoping to finish all the preparations on Sunday 15 when local and international exhibitors will be allowed to access their stands.