Africa reclaims ICCA congress in 2027 after two decades

Africa will return to the center of the global meetings industry in 2027 when Kigali, Rwanda, hosts the 66th ICCA Congress, the continent’s first appearance at the flagship event in more than two decades. 

The announcement by the International Congress and Convention Association signals renewed confidence among investors and industry players in Africa’s place in the global meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions market, which generates hundreds of billions of dollars in annual activity. 

ICCA said Kigali will welcome delegates from Oct. 24 to 27, 2027. Muscat, Oman, will follow as host of the 67th Congress from Nov. 12 to 15, 2028, underscoring the industry’s growing interest in emerging destinations with stronger air links and modern venues. 

For African tourism and business travel stakeholders, the Kigali decision carries added weight.

It reflects a broader effort to position the continent as a viable host for large international gatherings, with potential spillover for hotels, airlines, event services and local suppliers. 

The move also comes as governments across Africa step up investment in convention centers and urban infrastructure, aiming to capture a larger share of global business travel.

Kigali puts Africa back on the meetings map 

The Kigali Congress is expected to draw senior executives, destination marketers, association leaders and policymakers.

Organizers say the agenda will center on market growth, workforce skills and expanding Africa’s share of global meetings traffic. 

Rwanda has spent the past decade building its profile as a conference hub.

The Kigali Convention Centre has hosted several high-level international summits, helping the country gain visibility among global event planners. 

Janet Karemera, chief executive of the Rwanda Convention Bureau, said hosting the Congress highlights Africa’s rising role in the sector and provides a platform to showcase regional cooperation and investment opportunities.

Muscat extends the emerging markets theme 

In 2028, Muscat will host the ICCA Congress with an emphasis on cross-regional ties.

Oman sits at the crossroads of Asia, Europe, Africa and the Middle East and is expanding its conference facilities and hotel stock to attract more international events. 

ICCA said the Kigali and Muscat Congresses will help guide industry priorities, strengthen partnerships and support long-term growth in global business events, as organizers look beyond traditional markets for the next phase of expansion.