In September 2017, a multi-stakeholder group was created with the task of developing a multi-year roadmap under the title “Creating New Productive Capacity for the Leather Industry”, which seeks to create ways in which Ethiopia will join the global production network. As part of the process, the working group has carried out in-depth assessment of works to date and carried out consultations with various experts and stakeholders.
On February 2nd, 2018 – Enterprise Partners held a consultative stakeholders’ workshop with the Leather Industry Development Institute (LIDI) and the Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC) to brainstorm ideas resolving challenges faced within the Leather industry. The workshop held at Intercontinental Hotel was the first step of gathering insight from experts, stakeholders and industry leaders within the sector in order to develop the National Leather Roadmap.
Invited participant in attendance comprised of Industry leaders and supporting institutions within the Leather sector. There were an estimated 70 people in attendance with those from supporting institutions such as the Leather Industry Development Institute (LIDI), the Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC), Chemical companies, Private Leather manufacturers and Tanneries such as Batu Tannery, Addis Ababa Tannery, Bale Tannery and Mersa Tannery were present.
The full-day workshop began with introductory presentations from Ato Wondu Legesse –Director General, LIDI and Ato Abebe Abebayehu –Deputy Commissioner, EIC. The opening remarks encouraged participant involvement in the consultation and development of the road-map. The workshop continued with presentations from experts sharing insights of the global leather market, Darryl Cassingham –Leather Consultant and Reiner Hengstmann– Environment and Sustainable Production Expert. In the afternoon, focused group discussions were organised and all stakeholders participated in expressing ideas, raised key issues affecting the sector and identified plausible solution.