ANDE Metrics from the Ground Up 2025!
We are excited to host you for the ANDE Metrics from the Ground Up Conference 2025 that will take place in Nairobi, Kenya at Radisson Blu Hotel, Nairobi Upper Hill starting from 6th May to 8th May 2025, and happy to have you participate.
Prior to Departure
Conference confirmation: Please ensure that you have confirmed your participation for the conference.
Weather:
In May, the weather in Nairobi is mild, with average highs of around 73°F (23°C) and lows of 57°F (14°C). Expect occasional rain and cloudy days. Be sure to bring a mix of light clothing for daytime and warmer layers for the cooler mornings and evenings.
For International Travelers:
You do not require a visa to travel to Kenya. However, you are required to apply for your electronic travel authorization (ETA). Citizens of the East African Partners States, holders of Kenya Permanent Residence are exempt from obtaining the ETA. Click this link to apply
If you require a letter of invitation, please write to us for the same. Contact at Francis Gitau
All travelers to Kenya MUST have a valid Yellow Fever Immunization card. It is important that you also ensure you have valid travel and medical insurance cover prior to your departure in case you need it.
Currency:
The rate of exchange as of March 18, 2025, is KES. 129 to US $1. Slight changes happen from month to month.
For day-to-day expenses, other than accommodation costs, you will need about Kenya Shillings (KES. 3,000 – 6,450), roughly US $25-$50, this can be lower or higher depending on your expenses.
If you want to take cash, take your local currency and change into Kenya Shillings at either the forex at the airport (while you collect your bags at Nairobi) or at a bank or Forex Bureau in Nairobi City. Forex Bureaus in Nairobi City or major shopping malls tend to offer better rates forex at the airport but may not be convenient to access for first time travelers to Nairobi. There is also the option of exchanging your money at the hotel.
If you want to use a debit card, you can find ATMs at the airport, at Nairobi CBD and in select hotels.
If you take your credit/debit card to use in either an ATM or shop, let your card company know you will be using it in Kenya to avoid your card being declined. Although credit card payment is widely acceptable at most major establishments, some charge a levy for non-cash-transactions and others may insist on an ID/Passport.
Upon Arrival:
From Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
By taxi: It’s approximately a 20–30-minute journey by taxi when you use the Nairobi Expressway and about 45-60 minutes when you use the normal highway. These include Uber, Bolt, Little Cab, Airport taxi and hotel facilitated taxi.
To get hotel facilitated taxi services, please contact the hotel directly. Payment is mostly in cash, but several taxis accept cards, be sure to confirm their acceptable mode of payment before boarding. For app-based taxi services such as Uber, Bolt or Little Cab be sure to download the application in advance. You can expect to pay roughly KES 1000- Kes 2000 (USD $7 to $15).
Local phone SIM card:
There are Safaricom and Airtel stalls at the baggage collection area. More can be found next to the airport taxi waiting area. The cost of a SIM Card, 4G, 5g internet and social media tax should be under USD 1.5 and USD 15 airtime is enough to last you for a week during the training period. Please note that you will need a passport for identity verification.
While in Nairobi
Health and Safety:
The Nairobi Hospital
Phone: +254 703 082 000 or +254 730 666000
Email: customer.service@nbihosp.org
Website: Thenairobihosp.org
The Nairobi Hospital, Argwings Kodhek Rd,
Location: Argwings Kodhek Rd
Shopping malls & restaurants:
There are plenty of shopping malls and restaurants and are easily accessible by taxi e.g Sarit Center, Fogo Gaucho Nairobi and Yaya Center, The Junction Mall
Additional Information
Electricity:
In Kenya, the power plugs and sockets are type G. The standard voltage is 240 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. If needed, we recommend you bring your own adapters in case the hotel doesn’t have any.
Dress code:
The dress code for the course is business casual. Bring comfortable clothes because we will be in a room from 8:30am to 5:30pm approximately. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes for walking and clothes that you can layer because of the uncertain climate.
Fun things to do:
You can find a list here for Nairobi tours and activities. Feel free to consult with your fellow conference mates based in Nairobi. For those who enjoy swimming and gym, bring your costume as most accommodation facilities have swimming and gym facilities.
Tips:
It is not customary to tip in Kenya, but a tip will always be appreciated.
Emergency contacts:
If you have any questions or issues during the conference period please contract Francis Gitau on francis.gitau@aspeninstitute.org or +254 726798648.