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The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), through its Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Africa’s leather industry with initiatives aimed at fostering sustainability and empowering local entrepreneurs. Speaking at the Real Leather. Stay Different. Africa Talent Leather Design Showcase 2024 in Ethiopia, Senior Agricultural Attaché Justina Torry emphasized the importance of sustainable practices in leather fashion as climate change takes center stage globally.
Torry highlighted the collaboration between the Leather and Hide Council of America (LHCA) and Africa’s leather institutions, represented by the Africa Leather and Leather Products Institute (ALLPI), as pivotal to advancing the continent’s leather industry. The showcase celebrated creativity and innovation, with entrants demonstrating strong technical skills, eco-friendly production methods, and a commitment to minimizing waste.
“The leather industry not only serves as an economic pillar but also plays a critical role in redefining fashion’s environmental footprint,” Torry remarked, praising the dedication of participants and stakeholders in promoting sustainable leather practices.
The event’s sustainability agenda coincided with discussions at the 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan. Torry underscored the USDA’s commitment to sustainable trade through programs like the $1.2 billion Regional Agricultural Promotion Program (RAPP), launched in October 2023, and the Market Access Program (MAP), which supports organizations such as LHCA in driving global adoption of responsible leather practices.
In a notable development, the Sustainable Leather Foundation (SLF) welcomed ALLPI as an association partner, signaling a stronger push for environmentally responsible leather production.
Nicholas Mudungwe, Executive Director of ALLPI, expressed optimism about the partnership, stating: “As an institution focused on advancing the African leather sector, we look forward to promoting responsible environmental practices while addressing unique regional socio-economic challenges.”
SLF’s support will include training, assessments, and audits to enhance the African leather sector’s performance in the global market. “It is vital to support all regions in improving their ESG performance in this new regulatory era,” SLF noted, emphasizing the importance of addressing Africa’s specific challenges.
The growing emphasis on sustainable leather production represents a transformative step for Africa’s creative industries, with the leather sector positioned as both an economic driver and a contributor to reducing fashion’s environmental impact.
