On April 8, 2025, the Africa Leather and Leather Products Institute (ALLPI) brought together diplomats, industry experts, and government leaders in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for a high-level meeting focused on strengthening Africa’s leather trade.
Held at the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel, this was the Second COMESA Ambassadors Breakfast Meeting, aimed at improving trade within the leather sector across the 21 COMESA Member States.
The meeting centered on the theme of using diplomacy to drive trade and build stronger value chains in Africa. It was attended by ambassadors, African Union officials, development partners, and key figures in government and industry.
Yasmin Wohabrebbi, Ethiopia’s State Minister for Trade and Regional Integration, delivered the keynote. She spoke about Ethiopia’s commitment to industrial growth and regional cooperation.
She also highlighted the “Ethiopia Tamrit” initiative translated as “Made in Ethiopia” and pointed out the importance of infrastructure like industrial parks and the country’s airline network, which connects over 150 destinations.
ALLPI’s Executive Director Nicholas Mudungwe and Board Chair Nobby Macharia both stressed how economic diplomacy can unlock Africa’s manufacturing potential.
They also spoke about empowering small businesses and creating more jobs for women and youth in the leather industry.
During the event, ALLPI shared a presentation with data showing untapped opportunities in Africa’s leather sector. The COMESA Leather Value Chain Strategy, launched on March 28, 2025, was showcased as a practical plan to close production gaps, increase value-added exports, and boost regional trade.
The strategy was created with input from many stakeholders and is supported by funding from the European Union. It aims to help Africa become a major player in the global leather market.
Top leaders, including the Secretary General of COMESA, Chileshe Kapwepwe, and Kenya’s Dr. Juma Mukhwana, attended the official launch of the strategy, signaling strong regional support.
A panel of experts also weighed in on key challenges like inconsistent policies, the need for shared quality standards, and high transport costs. They called for closer ties with diplomatic missions to encourage investments, organize trade missions, and link businesses across borders.
Related news – https://leathernews.org/allpi-pushes-for-reforms-and-new-strategy-to-strengthen-africas-leather-industry/
