What it took Serena Hotels to host CeCe Winans

When your hotel is hosting a winner of 17 Grammys, 31 Dove Awards, and 16 Stellar Awards, you have to put the best foot forward. Do hotels change menus and rooms? Or bring special deliveries?

Anthony Chege, the general manager of the Nairobi Serena Hotel, says a lot is done in such of stay.

“We upgraded the superstar’s room from a business suite to the Lamu suite,” he told BDLife. “We also ensured smooth check-ins and check-outs, with our front desk and guest services team on standby.”

The hotel also embraced flexibility. During CeCe’s meet-and-greet session, for instance, they had to adjust the setup at the last minute following a request from the songstress’ team.

The hotel also gave CeCe a gift – a kiondo (traditional basket) and a safari hat – alongside a handwritten note that explained their significance.

This was not the first time that the Nairobi Serena Hotel was hosting a superstar. In May, the celebrated Arsenal Fans TV (AFTV) team of Robbie Lyle and Cecil Jee were also accommodated there.

“We had a partnership in place, and our entire team was well-briefed on expectations. The duo thoroughly enjoyed their experience with us,” said Mr Chege.

The hotel has also hosted Tanzanian singer and songwriter Juma Jux and his partner.

However, not all high-profile visitors usually want publicity about their stays, and the hotel knows how to handle that.

“For high-profile guests visiting privately, our team upholds strict confidentiality. We ensure no information leaks and that their privacy is fully respected throughout their stay,” said Mr Chege.

In Uganda, CeCe stayed at the Serena hotel on August 26 and 27. A statement from the hotel said they ensured her stay was “nothing short of exceptional”.

Their readjustments included having dedicated food and beverage teams and having a housekeeping team working harmoniously.

“From specially curated menus and in-room dining options to attentive, discreet housekeeping, every detail was thoughtfully designed to make her feel at home while showcasing the signature Serena touch of elegance, warmth, and world-class service,” said the statement.

Khaled Helmy, the general manager of Kampala Serena Hotel, said no effort was spared: “Our team worked tirelessly to ensure that her experience with us reflected the same excellence and warmth that she brings to her audiences.”

Like the Nairobi Serena, the Kampala Serena has also hosted many celebrities.

“Our teams have consistently demonstrated professionalism, discretion, and cultural sensitivity when accommodating high-profile guests,” said the press statement.

Maureen Okore, the regional marketing director for Serena Hotels Africa, said that hosting CeCe “not only amplified our visibility, but also reinforced our positioning as the destination of choice for world-class talent and iconic moments”.

“Such events extend our brand reach, elevate guest perception, and showcase Serena Hotels as a stage where global culture meets timeless hospitality,” she said at CeCe’s Nairobi show at Uhuru Gardens, which attracted thousands.

“It [the show] was wonderful because I know most of the songs. They are common worship songs. I play some of them on YouTube. They are part of my playlist,” she said.

The crowd was drawn into worship spirit by CeCe, who masterfully preached while in transition from one song to another. Her vocals left every ear marvelling, and the show was enhanced by top-notch screen and sound set-ups.

“I felt really blessed by the whole experience. CeCe Winans is a renowned gospel artiste. I feel privileged to have witnessed her perform here in Kenya,” said Ms Okore.

CeCe was making a grand return to Nairobi, having previously performed at the Bomas of Kenya in 2010.

Ruth Wangui, who had come all the way from Kikuyu to witness the show, said the concert “was a blessing”. A fan of CeCe’s, she also appreciated the fact that the main performance ended early enough.

“They are caring for the fact that church folks have to go to church tomorrow,” she said.