Africa's MICE industry has taken a significant step towards greater collaboration and competitiveness with the adoption of the Mombasa MICE Declaration 2026 at the ninth Africa MICE Summit & Awards, held from 1–2 October 2026 at the Tembo International Convention Centre in Mombasa, Kenya.
The Declaration provides a shared framework for coordinated action to advance the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) industry across Africa. The Summit brought together policymakers, global MICE industry leaders, convention bureaux, destinations, venues, hosted buyers, investors, innovators, sustainability advocates, young professionals and media representatives from more than 20 countries and markets.
Six Strategic Pillars for Africa's MICE Industry
The Mombasa MICE Declaration 2026 is built around six strategic pillars that provide a roadmap for strengthening Africa's position in the global MICE industry:
1
Investment & Infrastructure
Investment, infrastructure and intra-Africa trade
2
Destination Competitiveness
Strengthening destination appeal and market position
3
People, Talent & Professionalism
Developing skills and industry professionalism
4
Innovation, Technology & Sustainability
Driving innovation and sustainable practices
5
Global Market Access
Connecting Africa to global MICE markets
6
Inter- & Intra-Africa Collaboration
Strengthening continental partnerships
Together, these pillars address key areas required to build a more competitive, connected and sustainable MICE ecosystem across the continent.
"Kezy Mukiri, speaking on the Declaration, highlighted its role in moving the industry from discussion towards coordinated action, with a shared direction for partnerships and measurable progress across the MICE ecosystem."
Strategic International Partnerships
The Summit also marked the announcement of two strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening international and continental collaboration within Africa's MICE industry.
ICCA Knowledge Partner
The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) officially became a Knowledge Partner of the Africa MICE Summit, strengthening access to industry insights, expertise and learning opportunities for Africa's business events community.
IBTM America Collaboration Dialogue
The Summit also opened a collaboration dialogue with IBTM America, focusing on connecting Africa's MICE ecosystem with buyers and industry networks across the Americas. The collaboration is expected to create opportunities for destination visibility, knowledge exchange and business development.
Building a More Connected African MICE Industry
The Africa MICE Summit demonstrated the value of bringing the continent's MICE ecosystem together around a common agenda. The adoption of the Mombasa MICE Declaration, alongside the new international partnerships, marks an important step towards a more connected, competitive, sustainable and globally engaged African MICE industry.
The Summit concluded with the Africa MICE Awards, celebrating excellence, innovation and leadership within the industry.
The ninth Africa MICE Summit & Awards was convened by the Africa MICE Hub and its partners and provided a platform for policy dialogue, practical learning, youth mentorship, international showcases and matched networking.
Be Part of the Movement
Join the Africa MICE Hub community and contribute to shaping the future of Africa's business events industry.
Visit Website
www.africamicesummit.org
