Governor Mike Sonko signs pact to boost production of leather products

Kariokor Market (PHOTO: Courtesy)

The Nairobi County is eyeing the production of mass leather products for exports to the East African region.

The county on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding with the Kenya Leather Development Council (KLDC) that will enable the equipping and operationalisation of the Kariokor Leather factory.

As part of the agreement, the County Government will provide the constructed facility, which is complete and awaiting commissioning, and the KLDC will provide the modern machines to enhance the production of high quality and affordable footwear and leather products.

“A Management Advisory Committee will be established, comprising a representative from each of the County Government, the KLDC and the Kariokor manufacturers,” said Governor Mike Sonko.

The governor urged the council to expedite the process and exuded confidence the partnership will produce quality shoes for export across the region.

The initiative is in line with President Uhuru Kenyatta's Big Four Agenda to boost manufacturing and create jobs for youth while bolstering the "Buy Kenya, Build Kenya" initiative.

Present during the MoU signing ceremony was Dr. Issack M. Noor, the Chief Executive Officer and Ms. Angela Njeri Chege, the Corporation Secretary and Head of Legal Unit at the KLDC.