Located at the heart of Nairobi’s CBD, the iconic Hilton Hotel has announced its closure after 53 years of operations.
A report by Business Daily showed that the hotel will cease operations in Kenya and lay off an unspecified number of workers come December this year.
In a statement on Wednesday, Hilton pointed out challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic among other factors that led to the planned closure of the hotel.
“Covid-19 created unprecedented challenges for our industry. However, the decision to cease operations is not directly connected to the pandemic.
“Unfortunately, the closure of the hotel will result in a retrenchment process. However, we will work with those impacted to help them find alternative employment,” Hilton said.
Hilton clarified that it will not quit the Kenyan market, noting that it will continue to operate its other brands in the country.
The hotel also said that it will deploy some stuff to its other brands.
“Hilton Nairobi Hurlingham and Hilton Garden Inn Nairobi Airport are growing our portfolio with new hotel development opportunities in the city and beyond,” the hotel said.
The hotel has been standing high in Nairobi CBD since December 17, 1969.
At that time, it was among the tallest building in the capital and boasts of 287 rooms; 45 twins, 185 doubles, seven suites, 22 pool rooms, and 27 executive rooms.
In its many years of operations, it has hosted world leaders and other top ranking guests, gaining fame and prestige in the region owing to its amenities.
