The government has designated leather as a top value chain under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
Over the next five years, the sector has the potential to grow from 17,000 to 100,000 jobs, and from 15 billion to 100 billion in value.
The Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA) received a courtesy visit from the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) in order to discuss potential areas of partnership with regard to skill development along the leather value chain.
The nation’s training activities are regulated and managed by TVETA, a public corporate organisation. This covers programme, institution, and trainer licencing, registration, and accreditation.
“During our discussions, we explored various issues, highlighting key technical skills challenges, and discussed recommendations on how we can partner to enhance skills development in the leather value chain,” said KAM.
“Some of these challenges include poor skills and inappropriate production technology, lack of soft skills among TVET graduates, and the need for innovation in the development of new leather goods products to meet both domestic and international market standards,” KAM added.
KAM Chief Executive Anthony Mwangi pointed out that 90% of skins and hides are damaged during slaughter due to a lack of skills. To address this issue, KAM is actively seeking partnerships with institutions to teach people proper flaying techniques, thereby preserving this valuable chain of production.
As part of the recommendations, KAM Chief Executive emphasized the need to enhance the capacity of training institutions. “By bolstering these institutions, we can provide not only adequate and appropriate skills training but also develop tailored curriculums and training programs specifically focused on leather products. This approach will not only preserve the quality of raw materials but also enable the gradual build-up of skills necessary for employment and livelihood generation in the leather industry.” Noted Mr Mwangi
The necessity of competence-based training was emphasised by TVETA Director General Kipkirui Langat, who also emphasised the need to increase value addition to the leather industry and lessen reliance on the importation of completed leather products.
He continued by saying that TVETA has created a thorough curriculum for the leather industry that emphasises both leather technology and the creation of leather goods.
This strategic programme intends to provide prospective professionals with the essential abilities and information, supporting a robust and independent leather sector in the nation.
