Can incoming legislation bring opportunities for Africa?

Countries such as Ethiopia, Kenya, Namibia, South Africa, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe, to name a few, are already established leather sectors, and are well-positioned to benefit if they align with evolving global standards. This transformation, however, requires strategic investment and institutional support.

Organizations like the African Leather and Leather Products Institute (ALLPI) are key enablers in this process. ALLPI supports member states by offering technical training, policy development, cleaner production technologies, and market access initiatives. Its work strengthens local capacity, particularly for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), ensuring they are export-ready and compliant with international benchmarks.

Complementing these efforts, the Sustainable Leather Foundation (SLF) brings a global sustainability framework tailored to the leather value chain. SLF provides transparency tools, environmental, social and governance (ESG) audits, and certification systems that align with incoming legislation. Its platform empowers African producers to demonstrate compliance, enhance brand reputation, and connect with responsible buyers worldwide.

Together, ALLPI and SLF offer a strong support network for African producers navigating this regulatory shift. Their efforts, combined with regional integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), are encouraging a move away from raw material exports toward higher-value finished leather goods.

ALLPI and SLF are currently working together on a training and certification programme that is fully funded by the Leather & Hide Council of America. This programme is aimed at elevating the ESG standards of facilities in selected countries in Africa, in order to facilitate better trade with the United States. The first training workshop was conducted in Addis Ababa in November last year, and 4 tanneries have had a first visit by the team. The selection process for a further 4 tanneries is currently taking place, and those facilities will also benefit from a preliminary assessment visit, before all 8 will undergo a full ESG audit that meets international expectations and standards.
SLF are also working to ensure that local training resource is available through ALLPI for ongoing support for all their members and we look forward to bringing you more news on this in coming issues.

By embracing sustainability and leveraging institutional support, Africa’s leather industry has a rare chance not just to adapt—but to lead—in a changing global market.

SLF’s suite of tools aid understanding, expectations and provide a roadmap to successful improvement and achievement, with demonstration of good practice through our innovative Transparency Dashboard and dynamic QR code technology. If you want any more information on how your organisation can benefit from membership of SLF, then get in touch at info@sustainableleatherfoundation.com.

Until next time, thanks for reading.