NRF Signs Funding Agreement with Garissa University to Boost Leather Value Chain Project

24th April 2024: The National Research Fund (NRF) signed a funding agreement with Garissa University to support an innovative project aimed at strengthening Kenya’s leather value chain. The signing ceremony took place earlier today at the NRF Boardroom, witnesed by NRF CEO, Prof Dickson Andala and Garissa Unbiversity Vice Chancellor, Prof Ahmed Osman Warfa.

This funding will enable Garissa University to spearhead research focused on transforming hides and skins, typically viewed as by-products of the livestock sector, into valuable commodities. The initiative seeks to enhance the quality of hides and skins at the source, benefiting the entire leather industry in Kenya.

The project, titled Quality Improvement of Hides and Skins in Garissa Sub-County through Capacity Building of Slaughter Operators, Flayers, and Traders, will focus on building the capacity of slaughterhouse staff. By equipping operators with the skills to produce higher-quality hides and skins, the project will contribute to the growth of the leather sector and increase the value derived from livestock farming. The project is led by Prof Huho.

Funding such initiatives is central to NRF’s mission of promoting research that addresses real-world challenges. This collaboration with Garissa University is a key step toward realizing the potential of Kenya’s leather industry, ultimately contributing to the country’s socio-economic development.