In Summary
- Ruto’s decision comes as a response to the industry’s ongoing battle against the influx of cheap footwear making local producers suffer
- These measures aim to not only promote self-sufficiency but also create a favorable environment for local manufacturers to thrive
President William Ruto has announced plans to ban imported shoes within the next two years.
Ruto’s decision comes as a response to the industry’s ongoing battle against the influx of cheap footwear making local producers suffer.
According to Ruto, the move will also help Kenya tap into its abundant resources by utilizing domestic skins.
“We will be making shoes with leather from our cows,” said Ruto.
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The Head od State was speaking during a Sunday service in Kajiado County.
These measures aim to not only promote self-sufficiency but also create a favorable environment for local manufacturers to thrive.
Currently, local farmers are forced to discard goat and cow skins due to the meager prices they fetch at local tanneries.
This practice has had a detrimental effect on the overall shoe manufacturing process in Kenya.
Additionally, fierce competition from countries like the United States and China, known for their cheaper shoe products, has further impacted the profitability of the shoe-making business in the country.
