The iconic Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) is set to unveil a new feature that will redefine Nairobi’s skyline.
KICC will launch a state-of-the-art dancing water fountain, inspired by Dubai's iconic water displays outside the famous Dubai Mall in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The project, which cost Ksh100 million, aims to enhance the visitor experience by introducing a breathtaking fusion of water, light, and music.
"This is one of a kind in the African continent, usually seen in Dubai. We have similar ones at the Burj Khalifa, and that is what we are bringing here in Kenya at the KICC," explained Geoffrey Thande, KICC's Director of Business Development.
"The reason we are doing this is that we are in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) business. So when delegates come here for meetings, what else can they do? What else can they enjoy in our Kenyan market? We feel that, apart from the national parks, they can also enjoy this," Thande continued.
So, is this the first time Kenya has had such monuments?
Interestingly, this is not the first time KICC has had dancing fountains. In 1973, KICC had a similar fountain installed, which primarily sprayed water into the air.
KICC is essentially upgrading the 1973 fountains to world-class standards.
Details of the KICC dancing fountain
The new fountains are quite different from the 1973 ones. They will feature a musical and dancing aspect, operated by robotics, computers, and artificial intelligence.
They will be capable of creating various patterns of water sprayed into the air while simultaneously producing different coloured lights, allowing clients to align with the theme. In comparison, the Dubai Mall fountain features 6,600 lights and 25 coloured projectors.
The old fountains at KICC used to get dirty very quickly—within a week—and consumed nearly a million litres of water, which had to be discarded, making them unsustainable. However, the new fountain will use the same water for six months, with only top-ups to compensate for evaporation losses.
Additionally, they will feature computerised robotic cleaning machines that will move along the bottom of the fountains, handling all cleaning tasks and removing deposits and dirt.
For sustainability, the dancing fountain will be connected to a solar plant in Tsavo, which will provide the necessary power. The fountains have 30 motors ranging in capacity from 2.2 to 8 kilowatts, consuming a significant amount of energy, making solar power a necessity.
Why the fountains?
The installation of the dancing fountains at the KICC is expected to bring several positive changes including creating a visually stunning and immersive experience for visitors, combining water, light, and music in a captivating display. This will make KICC a more attractive destination for both local and international tourists.
It is also expected to increase foot traffic by drawing large crowds, especially during themed shows, family extravaganzas, and cultural performances held every weekend.
To mark the launch, KICC is organizing an exclusive inaugural event before the end of March. The showcase will feature live music, special effects, and an invitation-only audience of corporate executives, event planners, and media representatives.
