Leather processors urged to form a united association

By Elias HAKIZIMANA.

On October 10, 2025, during a general assembly of leather processors held in Nyarugenge District, participants discussed ways to merge two existing associations in accordance with the law, with the goal of making the leather sector a pillar of industrial growth and sustainable development.

However, the meeting ended without reaching a final resolution, as certain procedural requirements still need to be fulfilled before the merger can proceed.

Twahirwa Christian, a senior official at the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MINICOM) in charge of industry and entrepreneurship, explained that the unification process requires careful preparation and consensus among members.

“To form a national association, several steps must be completed. It is not productive to have multiple associations working separately on the same activities,” Twahirwa said. “We will continue consultations and share updates once the process is finalized.”

Emmanuel Murwanashyaka, owner of a leather processing and training company based in Kagugu, Gasabo District, said the one-week workshop provided valuable insights and opportunities for collaboration among industry players.

“We had time to exchange ideas on how to strengthen our work through unity. It was a very fruitful discussion,” he said. “I have personally benefited from this profession and it has supported my family. For our associations to merge, we still have steps to take, but this meeting helped us understand what must be done. We look forward to reconvening soon.”

The general assembly brought together representatives from about 230 enterprises in the leather sector, all emphasizing the importance of working together to strengthen their operations and competitiveness. Participants agreed that unity and collaboration are key to driving innovation and advancing Rwanda’s leather industry.
                      theinspirerpublications@gmail.com