Moses Kuria, Kenya’s Investments, Trade, and Industry Cabinet Secretary has declared that the Kenyan government plans to ban the importation of shoes beginning in 2024. The move is aimed at promoting the growth of the local shoe industry, particularly in Laikipia County.
Mr. Kuria conveyed this decision during a speech delivered in Laikipia, emphasizing the importance of supporting domestic industries and creating self-reliance. He urged Kenyans to prepare themselves to embrace locally manufactured footwear or be willing to walk barefoot, highlighting the government’s determination to prioritize local production and reduce dependence on imported goods.
“Rais amekubali na ametangaza, mwaka ujao tunapiga marufuku kuleta viatu kutoka nje ndio nyinyi watu wa Laikipia mkuwe mko mbele. Yule mtu amabaye hataki kuvaa viatu ya Laikipia si atembee miguu mitupu, ama naman gani?” He said.
Kuria further proposed the imposition of a 50 percent levy on imported shoes to support the residents of Laikipia and encourage the consumption of locally made footwear.
This isn’t the first time such a ban has been discussed in Kenya. On June 25, 2023, President Ruto also voiced his intention to prohibit the importation of leather products, signaling the government’s commitment to bolstering domestic industries and preserving valuable resources.
“Miaka mbili ijayo, nitapiga marufuku mambo ya kuleta viatu na mambo mengine ya leather kutoka nje,” Ruto said then.
President Ruto elaborated on the need for Kenya to harness its abundant livestock resources for local production rather than exporting raw materials or importing finished products. He stressed the paradox of feeding leather from local livestock to dogs while importing leather products at a considerable cost. The President emphasized that there is no advantage in imported leather, as it originates from the same domestic cattle.
Kenya boasts the third-largest livestock population in Africa, yet its leather industry has not reached its full potential. By prioritizing local production and reducing the reliance on foreign imports, the government aims to stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities, and fortify the country’s industrial base.
Laikipia county will be able to generate more than 6 Billion annually from the sale of products derived from animal skins and hides. pic.twitter.com/Ckvoej4HSr
— CS Moses Kuria (@HonMoses_Kuria) September 18, 2023
