Duale Leads Inspection of Kenya Leather Industrial Park
This ambitious project aims to transform Kenya’s leather sector into a global leader, promising substantial benefits for the local and national economy.
Cabinet Secretary for Forestry and Environment Aden Duale, alongside Principal Secretary for Livestock Development Jonathan Mueke, joined Deputy President Hon. Prof. Kithure Kindiki in an inspection tour to assess the progress of the park. Photo/Aden Duale.
In adherence to President William Ruto’s directive, the Kenya Leather Industrial Park (KLIP) in Kenanie, Machakos County, is on track for completion by March 31, 2025.
This ambitious project aims to transform Kenya’s leather sector into a global leader, promising substantial benefits for the local and national economy.
Cabinet Secretary for Forestry and Environment Aden Duale, alongside Principal Secretary for Livestock Development Jonathan Mueke, joined Deputy President Hon. Prof. Kithure Kindiki in an inspection tour to assess the progress of the park.
The high-profile visit underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring the project’s timely completion and its alignment with Kenya’s broader industrialization goals.
Once operational, KLIP is poised to revolutionize Kenya’s leather industry. The park is expected to significantly boost employment opportunities, directly benefiting the surrounding communities.
It will serve as a critical economic driver in the region, creating jobs, fostering skill development, and enhancing livelihoods for thousands.
For Kenya’s livestock farmers, the project is a game-changer. By providing a sustainable market for hides and skins, KLIP encourages better animal husbandry practices and increased livestock production.
This initiative not only ensures a steady income stream for farmers but also improves the overall quality of leather products.
On a broader scale, KLIP will position Kenya as a competitive player in the global leather market. The park focuses on value addition, enabling the country to export high-quality leather products rather than raw materials.
This shift is expected to drive foreign exchange earnings, support industrial growth, and contribute significantly to Kenya’s economic expansion.
The government’s commitment to the project highlights the strategic importance of the leather sector in Kenya’s Vision 2030 agenda. By fostering public-private partnerships and investing in infrastructure, the administration aims to create a robust industrial ecosystem around KLIP.
“This project is a testament to our dedication to enhancing industrialization and creating opportunities for our people,” said CS Duale during the inspection tour. “KLIP represents the future of Kenya’s leather industry and a significant step toward achieving economic self-reliance.”
As the March 2025 deadline approaches, all eyes are on Kenanie to deliver on its promise of transforming Kenya’s leather industry.
The successful completion of KLIP is expected to mark a pivotal moment in the country’s journey toward sustainable economic growth and industrial development.
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