Africa-Press – Kenya. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has declared that the traditional workplace culture marked by formal attire such as suits and ties may soon be obsolete.
Kindiki explained that the younger generation is increasingly demanding flexibility and modern approaches to work.
Speaking at the opening of the Africa Employers Summit 2025, Kindiki observed that today’s youth are reshaping the employment landscape, pushing for work environments that prioritise results over rigid dress codes and traditional norms.
“The era of ties and suit-wearing workers could be coming to an end,” said the Deputy President. “The message is that you do not need to be in a suit and tie to be productive.”
Kindiki emphasised that this shift in workplace culture reflects broader demographic and economic trends across Africa.
The continent, he noted, has the world’s youngest and fastest-growing population, with an estimated 400 million people aged between 15 and 35—a number projected to soar to 1 billion by 2063.
While he described Africa’s youth as a “tremendous asset,” Kindiki also acknowledged the immense challenges they present, particularly in the form of job creation.
He warned that the lack of sufficient employment and income opportunities has already sparked unrest in some countries and is contributing to the misuse of digital platforms.
“Some of them turn to social media platforms not for e-commerce or job opportunities, but to spread hate messages,” he remarked.
The Africa Employers’ Summit 2025, taking place from September 8–9 at the Emara Ole Sereni Hotel in Nairobi, is a high-level continental forum convening government officials, business leaders, employer organisations, and international institutions.
The summit provides a platform for critical dialogue on the future of work in Africa.
Organised by BUSINESSAfrica Employers’ Confederation and co-hosted by the Federation of Kenya Employers, the summit is held in collaboration with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the International Organisation of Employers (IOE).
Key focus areas include improving business competitiveness and sustainability, embracing digitalisation, enhancing youth employability, and adapting to the platform economy.
A major component of the summit also centers on advancing the ILO’s Social Justice Agenda, with priorities on enterprise sustainability, social protection, and strengthening employer organisations.
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