On September 8, 2025, Nairobi became the scene of a historic turning point for Africa. The African Employers Summit brought together leaders, investors, and public decision-makers, affirming the central role of the private sector in the continent's transformation. More than just an economic forum, this event marked the emergence of an African employers' organization determined to influence major global negotiations.

 

The African Employers Summit, which opened in Nairobi on September 8, 2025, brought together more than 4,500 delegates from over 70 countries, under the theme "Africa's Global Future: Integrated, Innovative, and Sustainable." Organized in collaboration with the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the event highlighted the commitment of African private actors to play a leading role in the continent's development.

 

At the heart of the discussions was the need to strengthen the competitiveness of African businesses in the face of contemporary challenges such as digitalization, employable youth, and the platform economy. Discussions also focused on how the International Labor Organization (ILO) can support the sustainability of African businesses and strengthen African employers' organizations.

 

This event illustrated the rise of African employers, who aspire to become a political, economic, and normative force in development governance. By bringing together the continent's key economic players, the summit highlighted the importance of building coalitions capable of influencing major global negotiations, from the climate economy to industrial value chains.

 

Thus, the 2025 African Employers Summit in Nairobi marked a key step in the recognition of the private sector as a central player in the continent's transformations, paving the way for a new era of African cooperation and leadership on the global stage.