Tanzanian leather sector struggles

11/02/2009

Despite having the third-largest livestock population in Africa, Tanzania’s leather industry is not realising its potential.

According to Singida regional agricultural and livestock development officer, Salumu Sengo, there are various reasons the sector is struggling. He believes the lack of training in treating animal skins is one of the key problems. Because this skill is lacking, many hides are transported in a raw state rather than being processed in Tanzania. This means value and much-needed work is being lost each month.

According to Mr Sengo, competition with other countries and outdated technology are also causing major problems for the leather sector.