SADC leather agenda moves forward
Member States of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening regional leather value chain development through increased collaboration and cooperation.
The commitment was made during the 2nd SADC Regional Leather Forum, held in Durban, South Africa, on July 23 to 24 . The event brought together government representatives, development partners, private sector stakeholders and other participants from across the leather industry.
Discussions focused on improving regional cooperation, supporting value addition, strengthening links between producers, tanneries, manufacturers and markets, and addressing challenges affecting the competitiveness of the leather sector.
Participants also highlighted the importance of implementing the SADC Leather Regional Model Policy Framework through coordinated national and regional actions, while supporting SMEs and encouraging investment across the value chain.
The Forum concluded with a renewed commitment to positioning the leather industry as a contributor to industrial development, employment creation and sustainable economic growth across the region. Support from German Cooperation through the CESARE Programme was also recognised for its contribution to advancing regional leather sector development.
