The Leather Industry Research and Development Center (LIRDC) has announced plans to establish a Leather Industry Park in Mojo, Oromia Region, following the completion of a government-approved feasibility study.

LIRDC CEO Zulfiqar Abajihad told the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA) that the project is part of a broader effort to harness Ethiopia’s vast leather potential and strengthen its contribution to the national economy. The park is expected to enhance foreign exchange earnings, support import substitution, and create jobs in the sector.

According to Zulfiqar, a revised 10-year strategic plan launched in 2024 is now guiding sectoral reforms. The plan was developed after research revealed persistent bottlenecks in the industry, including weak supply and poor quality of hides, industry fragmentation, environmental concerns, outdated technology, and lack of coordination.

To address these challenges, stakeholders are focusing on improving raw material supply through modernized animal farming while also drawing lessons from global leather leaders such as India, Italy, and China.

The Mojo site was selected as the most suitable location for the park, which is expected to boost farmers’ incomes and strengthen the entire leather value chain. Preparations currently underway include fundraising efforts and the establishment of a temporary office to oversee implementation.

Zulfiqar stressed that consolidating leather industries within the park will allow for a shared waste management system, reducing the sector’s environmental footprint. He added that ongoing research aims to recycle both solid and liquid waste into useful products, addressing long-standing health and environmental concerns linked to tanning and processing.

Source: The Ethiopian Herald