Ethiopia is preparing to set up a Leather Industry Park after the government approved a detailed feasibility study, according to the Leather Industry Research and Development Center (LIRDC).
LIRDC CEO Zulfiqar Abajihad said the new park will help the country take advantage of its vast leather resources and play a stronger role in economic development.
He noted that the sector has already contributed to foreign exchange earnings, import substitution and job creation, but many challenges still stand in the way of reaching its full potential.
A revised 10-year strategy, launched in 2024, is guiding the reform process. Research has revealed major roadblocks including weak hide supply and quality, industry fragmentation, environmental issues, lack of modern technology and poor coordination.
To overcome these challenges, efforts are underway to modernize animal farming to improve raw material quality and to learn from international examples in India, Italy and China.
The feasibility study identified Modjo as the best location for the park. The site is expected to improve farmers’ livelihoods while supporting the leather industry’s long-term growth. Preparations are already in motion with fundraising and the establishment of a temporary office to manage the project.
Zulfiqar explained that concentrating leather businesses in one place will allow for a shared waste management system. He also pointed out that research is being conducted to recycle both solid and liquid waste into valuable products, helping to tackle health and environmental risks linked to tanning and processing.
Source – Ethiopian Herald
