Kenya launches bid to host the 12th World Chamber Congress

Kenya has expressed interest in hosting the 12th World Chamber Congress, 2021.

Kenya has stepped up its bid to host the bi-annual event which brings together global trade bodies, chambers, businesses and high-profile government officials to share best practices, develop networks and learn new areas of innovation.

A delegation of private sector players last week, led by Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) leader Kiprono Kittony, spearheaded the lobbying at this year’s congress in Sydney, Australia.

“At the close of the forum, Kenyan Chamber delegates held bilateral talks with Ethiopia and resolved to settle on one bidder from Africa once an agreement is reached at a meeting to be held in Djibouti in December this year,” said the lobby in a statement.

Kenya’s bid received a shot in the arm after Africa chamber leaders attending the meeting agreed to settle on only one bidder from the continent.

“This will build a strong case for Africa to win a bid for the World Chamber Congress in 2021.”

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The congress is held on a rotational basis every two years and previously has been held in France, South Korea, Canada, South Africa, Turkey, Malaysia, Mexico, Qatar and Italy.

Sao Paulo, Brazil, will host the next conference in 2019.

The comes on the backdrop of Kenya losing the hosting rights of CHAN games 2018 after Confederation of African Football assessed the country's infrastructural, political and security situation.

CAF biggest misgivings it is reported was Kenya failure to meet the deadline in preparing for the four venues and 11 facilities that were earmarked for the tournament.

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Kenya won the hosting rights in April 2014 more than three years ago which was enough time to put everything in order.

The 2021 congress is earmarked to take place in either Middle East or Africa. Bidding countries include Kenya, Ethiopia, Dubai, Oman, Jordan and Iran.

“The purpose of such a congress is to allow participants to benefit from networking opportunities. It provides an unparalleled opportunity to connect and strengthen relations with a diverse and international group of individuals representing more than 100 countries,” said the statement from KNCCI.