Deputy President Rigathi Kithure Kindiki has called on employers across Africa to embrace young people as the continent redefines its future workforce, urging businesses to break free from rigid traditions and adapt to the realities of the 21st century.
Speaking at the opening of the Africa Employers Summit in Nairobi on Monday, Prof. Kindiki said Africa’s biggest opportunity lies in harnessing the energy, creativity, and technological fluency of its youth, while also ensuring inclusion of women and persons with disabilities in the economic journey.
“Together, let us envision and create an Africa where every individual has a place to thrive, where no one is excluded, and where business stands as the most dynamic driver of social transformation and shared prosperity,” the DP told delegates.
He stressed that both government and private sector must work hand in hand to create an enabling environment for young people to explore their talents, innovate, and drive enterprises into modern, globally competitive organizations.
Prof. Kindiki further underlined that the continent’s growth will depend not only on jobs but on holistic support systems that address the broader needs of workers. “The private sector must translate policy into tangible jobs and income opportunities. But equally, we need them to invest in mental health, wellness, sports, and rehabilitation programs for young people,” he said.
Significantly, the DP noted that the modern African worker is demanding flexibility, a shift from rigid office traditions to results-oriented setups.
“Youthful workers today are asking employers for flexibility at the workplace. The era of the suit-and-tie worker may well be fading. Productivity does not depend on how you dress, but how you innovate and deliver,” he remarked.
Calling for public-private partnerships that leverage technology and inclusivity, Kindiki urged leaders to think boldly: “The Africa of the 21st century will be powered by its youth. It is possible to transform Africa in our time if we dare to actualize the dream.”
