Deputy Chief of Staff Mr. Eliud Owalo, speaking the 29th Annual National Conference of the Institute of Human Resources Management (IHRM) in Naivasha. PHOTO/UGC.
By SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT
In a powerful address at the 29th Annual National Conference of the Institute of Human Resources Management (IHRM) in Naivasha, Deputy Chief of Staff Mr. Eliud Owalo has called for a radical overhaul of how organisations manage human capital, urging business leaders to think beyond short-term gains and embrace long-term strategies to ensure sustainability and growth.
Mr. Owalo’s passionate speech centred around the urgent need to harness the transformative potential of Generation Z, the first truly digital-native generation, and the profound impact they are already having on the workforce.
President William Ruto’s Deputy Chief of Staff, responsible for Performance and Delivery Management was speaking when he presided over the 29th Annual National Conference of the Institute of Human Resources Management (IHRM) in Naivasha.
Describing them as a driving force of change, the DCS emphasized that Gen Z demands more than just a paycheck; they crave authenticity, inclusivity, and purposeful work.
“The future of our organisations depends on how well we can channel the energy, agility, and mindset of this new generation,” Mr. Owalo said. “But to do so, leaders must adopt a bold, new approach to HR and leadership.”
In a stark warning, Mr Owalo, cautioned that Kenya’s persistent economic challenges will only worsen unless leaders make performance their primary focus, rather than allowing political interests to undermine corporate boards.
“We cannot afford to let short-term political agendas steer our companies. Boards must commit to long-term goals that are tied to tangible outcomes and measurable impact,” he stressed.
His comments struck a chord as he called for the adoption of the Diversity, Inclusivity, Empowerment, and Belonging (DIEB) principles, which he believes are crucial to attracting and retaining Gen Z talent.
Deputy Chief of Staff Mr. Eliud Owalo, with officials of the Institute of Human Resources Management (IHRM). PHOTO/UGC.
He argued that a strategic shift in HR practices is essential to align with Gen Z’s core values — collaboration, transparency, and innovation. “Rigid cultures and poorly managed change will only push this generation away,” he warned.
Mr Owalo also took aim at the so-called “politics of people” within organisations, shedding light on the informal power dynamics that can often hinder progress. He encouraged leaders to embrace political skill, but with integrity.
“When guided by strong values, political acumen can be a force for good,” he said, calling on leaders to be emotionally intelligent, culturally sensitive, and attuned to the needs of their teams.
In a final rallying call, Mr Owalo reminded the audience that success hinges on people, not systems.
“It’s the individuals, not the structures, that make the difference,” he concluded, leaving a clear message for all business leaders: to truly thrive, they must adapt to the changing landscape, or risk falling behind.
As the nation grapples with pressing economic challenges, Mr Owalo’s call for a human-centric, future-ready approach to leadership has never been more urgent.
