10 Nairobi Buildings Everyone Should Know — Can You Name Them All?

Whether you are a first-time visitor, a new resident, or a long-time Nairobi resident, there are certain buildings in the city everyone should know.

These landmarks serve as major government offices, popular meeting points, and business centres. If someone gets lost in the city, chances are they will be given directions using these landmarks.

The following are 10 iconic buildings that have become an essential part of Nairobi’s identity and continue to stand out for their history, architecture, and significance.

Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC)

The KICC is arguably Nairobi’s most famous landmark. It opened in 1973 and was completed in 1974.

The building was designed by Norwegian architect Karl Henrik Nostvik together with Kenyan architect David Mutiso.

Its cylindrical tower, amphitheatre and rooftop helipad give it a distinctive appearance that has made it instantly recognizable for decades.

KICC stands at about 105 metres and has 32 floors; it has become one of East Africa’s conference venues and has hosted major international meetings and summits.

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Parliament Buildings

Parliament buildings are located next to City Hall. The complex houses both the National Assembly and the Senate, making it the centre of the country’s legislative work.

It remains one of the most visited landmarks in Nairobi’s government district.

Times Tower

It is also known as the New Central Bank Building; it serves as the headquarters of the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).

Every year, thousands of Kenyans visit the building to sort out tax-related services in the KRA offices.

It was completed in the early 2000s, and the 38-storey building rises to approximately 140 metres, making it one of Nairobi’s tallest towers.

Britam Tower

Britam Tower is currently the tallest building in Nairobi, standing at 200.1 metres tall, and it was completed in 2017.

It is a 31-storey building with a structure that resembles a crystal; it serves as the headquarters of Britam Holdings, located in Upper Hill, Nairobi.

UAP Old Mutual Tower

The UAP Old Mutual Tower held the title of the tallest building before Britam Towers overtook it.

It stands at 163 metres tall and has 33 floors; it serves as the headquarters of UAP Old Mutual.

Teleposta Towers

Teleposta Towers stands at approximately 120 metres tall and has played an important role in Kenya’s telecommunications sector. When it was completed, it surpassed KICC as Nairobi’s tallest building.

The building houses postal and telecommunications offices, reflecting the country’s transition into modern communication infrastructure while remaining one of the CBD’s most recognizable towers.

Kenya National Archives

Unlike other buildings which are recognized for being the tallest in the city, Achieves is celebrated for its historical and cultural significance.

The building preserves millions of government records, photographs, and historical documents that document Kenya’s written past.

It also houses the renowned Murumbi African Heritage Collection, which contains priceless African art and cultural artefacts.

Its location along Moi Avenue has made it a familiar landmark for both residents and tourists exploring downtown Nairobi, making it easy to give directions to those who get lost.

Nairobi City Hall

Nairobi City Hall was built in the colonial era and has served as the city’s administrative headquarters for decades.

Today, it continues to house key county government offices like the Governor’s office while also representing the city’s administrative history from colonial times to the present day.

Co-operative Bank House

This is one of Nairobi’s best-known commercial buildings, which is located in the Central Business District.

It serves as the headquarters of Co-operative Bank of Kenya, one of the country’s largest financial institutions.

I&M Bank Tower

The I&M Bank Tower is approximately 99 metres tall, serving as a key commercial landmark and the headquarters of I&M Bank.

Afya Centre

Although it is not among Nairobi’s tallest buildings, Afya Centre remains one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

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It is located near the heart of the CBD and has long served as a major transport and commercial hub, particularly for travellers heading to different parts of the country.

Knowing these buildings in Nairobi makes it easy to navigate the city while reducing the chances of getting lost in the very busy town.

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A collage of Times Tower, Britam Tower and City Hall
PHOTO/File