Government Initiative in Kenya Fuels Growth in Leather Industry, Creating Job Opportunities

Kenya's government initiates a plan to boost Narok County's leather industry, creating jobs and fostering economic growth through local production.
Kenyan Leather Industry

In a bid to stimulate economic growth and foster employment opportunities, the government of Kenya has unveiled plans to bolster the leather industry in Narok County, situated in the south rift region of Kenya.

The announcement came during a press conference held at the Ewaso Ngiro tannery in Narok South sub-county. Peninnah Malonza, the Cabinet Secretary for East African Community, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands, and Regional Development, revealed the government’s commitment to revitalizing the sector, which has long been overlooked.

Highlighting the significance of the initiative, Malonza expressed remorse over the historical neglect of animal skins and hides, which were often discarded as waste. However, she noted a positive shift, stating that these materials have now become instrumental in generating employment opportunities. The tannery project has already facilitated the creation of over 500 direct jobs and an additional 5,000 indirect employment opportunities.

One of the key objectives outlined by Malonza is the expansion of the tannery factory to manufacture footwear for security personnel and school children. This move aims to reduce the reliance on imported leather products while simultaneously fostering local production and consumption.

Moreover, the expansion plans include enhancing the accessibility of treated leather products, thereby eliminating the need for businesswomen like Emily Osono, to travel long distances in search of raw materials. By bringing these resources closer to local artisans, the government seeks to catalyze entrepreneurship and alleviate logistical challenges faced by small-scale enterprises.

The impact of these developments is already being felt by entrepreneurs like Emily Osono, a beads and leather artisan based in Narok town. Osono commended the government’s efforts, emphasizing the positive effects on local businesses. Previously, artisans like Osono had to journey to Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, to procure treated leather for their craft. However, the establishment of the tannery has significantly reduced transportation costs and streamlined the supply chain, benefitting entrepreneurs and consumers alike.

The tannery project, initiated by the national government in 2014, has witnessed remarkable progress, particularly in the production of skin products sourced from various livestock such as goats, sheep, cows, and camels. This increase in output has not only helped the local leather industry but also positioned Narok County as a hub for sustainable economic development.

In conclusion, the government’s intervention in the leather industry of Narok County marks a pivotal step towards fostering economic resilience and job creation in the region. By harnessing the potential of local resources and empowering small-scale entrepreneurs, this initiative holds promise for sustainable growth and prosperity. As stakeholders continue to collaborate and innovate, the future of Narok’s leather industry appears vibrant and promising.

Like this article? Share it with your network!

Arshad

Arshad

He is an engineer specializing in Leather Technology, known for his keen interest in analyzing global leather, footwear, and leather goods markets & his ability to make complex information clear & accessible. 

Write for Us

Share your stories, experiences, opinions, and analysis in the expert columns of leathernews.org and reach a niche audience and make your voice heard in the global leather, footwear & leather goods industry.

Support Us

We bring you the latest news, insights, and analysis from the global leather, footwear, & leather goods industries

Search Articles

Roll Up Your Sleeves & Join Our Exclusive Newsletter

Get our free weekly newsletter that keeps hundreds of professionals in the global leather, footwear & leather goods industry updated with the latest insights & news.

Recent News

Italian Leather Maker Bonaudo Launches Global Student Design Contest With IED

Bonaudo S.p.A., a prominent name in Italian leather Industry since 1923, has announced a unique...

Coach Parent Company Tapestry Reports $1.51 Billion in Q1 2025 with $187 Million in Net Income

Tapestry Inc., the parent company behind brands like Coach, Stuart Weitzman, and Kate Spade...

Evolved By Nature Partners with Authentic Thai Leather to Drive Sustainable Leather Production

In a recent partnership, Evolved By Nature, a leader in natural peptide technology, has joined...

Support Us

We bring you the latest news, insights, and analysis from the global leather, footwear, & leather goods industries