The Republic of Kenya is located in the Eastern Africa region. The population is approximately 54 million people according to UN estimates. Its capital city is Nairobi located in the South-central part of the country. It is famed for its scenic landscapes and vast wildlife preserves. Its Indian Ocean coast provides some of the finest beaches in Africa, predominantly Muslim Swahili cities such as Mombasa, a historic center that has contributed much to the musical and culinary heritage of the country.
Languages
Kenya is a multi-ethnic State with a variety of languages spoken. English is the official language while Kiswahili is the widely spoken language.
Climate
Kenya enjoys a tropical climate, that is pleasant, favourable and characterized by plenty of sunshine all year round. In October, the average temperature in the capital Nairobi is 23ºC, reaching highs of 26ºC and lows of 15ºC.
Banking Services
Business hours are generally from 08:30hrs to 16:00hrs on weekdays and from 08:30hrs to 12:00hrs on Saturdays. The banks remain closed on Sundays and on public holidays. Most banks have Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) accepting various international debit and credit cards.
Foreign Exchange
Foreign currencies can be exchanged at the banks and Forex Bureaus. The currency of Kenya is the Kenya Shilling (Ksh). It is issued in 1000, 500, 200, 100 and 50 bank notes and 40, 20, 10, 5 and 1 coins. Currency exchange points are available at banks, the airport and at major hotels. Daily prevailing exchange rate of major international currencies can be obtained from the Central Bank of Kenya website; https://www.centralbank.go.ke/rates/forex-exchange-rates/.
Telephone Services
Mobile telephone services are quite efficient in Kenya. Some of the main mobile telephone service providers are: Safaricom, Airtel and Telcom offering voice, data, messaging and mobile money services. The telcos operating in Kenya also provide access to internet coverage using third generation (3G), fourth generation (4G) and fifth generation (5G). Cell phone SIM cards are easily available at the cost of approximately KES. 200. Delegates should note that registration is required for activation. Online payments (Visa, Mastercard, PayPal etc.) are accepted by most establishments in Kenya.
Time zone
Kenya is within the East Africa Standard Time zone. It is three hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT +3).
Electricity supply
The standard electrical current used throughout Kenya is between 220-240 volts with a frequency of 50 Hz. The electric plugs and sockets are of the D/G. It is recommended that delegates carry their own adaptors to comply with the electric current and plugs.
Restaurants and other Hotel Services
African, Western and Oriental cuisines are all available in Nairobi restaurants. When dining in Nairobi, leaving a tip is voluntary and considered courteous.
Taxi Services
Reliable online and traditional cab/taxi operators are readily available within the city; offering reliable and affordable services. Payment can be made in local currency or using the known global currency. You can download the Uber, Little Cab, Bolt apps and attach your payment method to begin using the service. Please note that foreign transaction fees may apply based on your payment method. Whereas tipping the taxi driver is customary for good service, it is not mandatory.
Business and Shopping Hours
Most businesses are generally open from 08:00hrs to 17:00hrs. However, some shopping malls operate 24 hrs. Delegates who wish to shop may seek advice from their hotels on the nearest shopping facilities.
Tourism
Kenya is a popular tourism destination throughout the year. Tourist attractions range from the white sandy beaches at the coast to scenic landscapes, memorable mountain expeditions and the majestic beauty of a wide variety of flora and fauna.
Nairobi is also the only city in the world that boasts of a National Park within its proximity.
