Train more on leather trade, varsities urged

Tertiary institutions across the country have been urged to generate an adequate number of skilled leather professionals and graduates to address the current deficit.

Speaking at the Technical University of Kenya, Rober Njoka, the Chairman of the Kenya Tanners Association, said the country has had to import labour from India to operate the machinery due to the scarcity of skilled professionals.

"The leather industry is burgeoning in Kenya; however, we are facing a shortage of professionals, leading us to seek technicians from India," he said.

Njoka said universities should engage with stakeholders to identify crucial training needs. This collaborative effort would facilitate the design of a curriculum.

The government hopes to invigorate the local leather industry by enhancing value addition.

Livestock PS Jonathan Mueke said the government intends to impose a ban on shoe imports to foster the growth of the domestic leather industry. "The sector's contribution to the country's economic advancement will be underscored by aiming to produce 15 million pairs of back-to-school shoes. A proposal to prohibit the importation of shoes within a two-year timeframe has been put forth," he said.