US-Africa partnership boosts leather sustainability
At the African Sourcing and Fashion Week (ASFW) 2024 trade fair held in Addis Ababa from November 8-10, the Leather and Hide Council of America (LHCA) formalised a partnership with the Africa Leather and Leather Products Institute (ALLPI) to advance sustainable practices within the leather industry across Africa.
The collaboration was cemented through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), with the aim of promoting sustainable leather practices and supporting growth in the African leather sector. This initiative is supported by funding from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The agreement outlines a series of initiatives to be jointly undertaken by LHCA and ALLPI, including trade missions, technical training, and the provision of resources for local industry stakeholders.
A key component of the partnership is the launch of the Real Leather. Stay Different. (RLSD) leather promotion campaign in Africa. This campaign, originally successful in other regions, will focus on increasing awareness of the benefits of leather as a sustainable and long-lasting material, aligning with global efforts to encourage responsible consumer choices.
Furthermore, the collaboration will facilitate knowledge exchange on sustainable leather production, enhancing the capacity of African producers to meet international standards. This is expected to boost trade opportunities between Africa and the United States, fostering stronger ties between the two regions' leather industries.
The MOU reflects a shared commitment to sustainability, aiming to create a positive impact on both economic development and environmental stewardship within the leather sector. By focusing on sustainable practices, the partnership seeks to support a more resilient and competitive leather industry in Africa, while also contributing to global sustainability goals.
This agreement marks a significant step forward in strengthening U.S.-Africa cooperation in the leather sector, with both organisations expressing optimism for the future of leather production on the continent.
