Bulawayo, (New Ziana) – The Zimbabwe Leather Development Council (ZLDC) has partnered with Lupane State University (LSU) to process goat and sheep skins into leather and other high-value products, a move expected to unlock new export opportunities.
ZLDC Secretary Jacob Nyathi said this during a Cross-Sector Conversation on Industrial Growth in Matabeleland region, organized by the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) and the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC) on Thursday.
The meeting brought together government officials, private and public sector stakeholders to explore strategies for revitalizing industries in the region.
The global leather trade, valued at over US$100 billion annually, represents one of the largest agricultural commodity industries worldwide.
“Countries like Ethiopia and Kenya export processed leather from these skins, while we discard them. Our new project with Lupane State University will transform this waste into leather and finished products,” Nyathi said.
He emphasized that goat leather is stronger than cowhide, making it ideal for durable goods.
“It may not be as exotic as crocodile skin, but it’s a superior base material,” he added.
Nyathi said Zimbabwe’s leather industry declined following the collapse of the Cold Storage Commission (CSC). At its peak, CSC alone processed 400,000 hides annually—a figure now barely matched by CSC and 90 private abattoirs combined.
“We once processed over 800,000 hides yearly, even nearing one million. Reviving livestock production is critical for leather processing,” said Nyathi.
He called for stricter enforcement of the ban on second-hand footwear and substandard leather imports, which evade duties through smuggling.
“This illicit trade undermines local manufacturers. We must support the Ministry of Industry and Commerce efforts in curbing this vice,” he said.
To boost competitiveness, Nyathi said his organisation has proposed a duty rebate system and bonded warehouses to reduce manufacturing costs.
“Inputs account for 70% of production expenses and inputs. Affordable access is key to revive the industry,” he said.
He also urged collaboration with universities for research on import substitution and reverse engineering.
Nyathi implored the government and its agencies to prioritise locally produced leather goods such as shoes and boots for the security sector under the Buy Zimbabwe campaign.
“Supporting homegrown products will stimulate demand and increase industry capacity,” Nyathi stressed.
New Ziana
