This archive report was first published on 23 October 2019.
On October 17, 2019, the Attorney General's office issued a circular requiring government staff to wear made-in-Kenya outfits on Fridays and during public holidays.
The directive is part of the government's efforts to achieve President Uhuru Kenyatta's Big 4 Agenda on manufacturing, which aims to expand the country's manufacturing sector and create local employment.
According to the circular, signed by Solicitor-General Kennedy Ogeto, all members of staff are required to wear 'decent, smart casual Kenyan-produced and tailored attire' on Fridays.
Mr. Ogeto confirmed the authenticity of the circular, stating that it was issued in line with government policy to spur growth of the local manufacturing industry.
The directive took effect last Friday, and top government officials and ministries are said to have received similar instructions.
During Mashujaa Day celebrations in Mombasa, President Kenyatta, his Deputy William Ruto, and Cabinet Secretaries wore Kenyan-made attire, setting an example for Kenyans to embrace local products.
Locally made attire is expected to become a new trend for government employees across departments, with the aim of promoting the local textile industries.
