Kenyans will soon have more access to locally produced footwear, thanks to a new leather-processing factory that is set to be opened in July.

The Kariokor Common Manufacturing Facility is a joint initiative between the national government and the Kenya Leather Development Council, and will contribute towards Kenya’s Vision 2030, the Star reports.

‘The new Kariokor market will be equipped with modern machinery that will mechanise the production of shoes. This will go a long way in producing good quality shoes that meet international standards,’ says Nairobi governor Mike Sonko.

The facility is expected to grow annual production from 2 million shoes to 10 million, thereby increasing traders’ yearly income to more than KES1 billion by 2022.

It will also generate job opportunities, says Allan Igambi, regional executive committee member for finance. ‘Currently, the old Kariokor market employs nearly 1 000 people, which is expected to grow to 10 000 in three years both directly and indirectly through subsidiary jobs.’

7 May 2019
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