Mbabane- Farmers in Eswatini are being urged to rethink how they manage their livestock, with a renewed focus on maximizing the economic value of hides alongside meat production.
Chairperson of the Eswatini Leather Cooperative, Robert Shabangu, has emphasized that hides and skins present a largely untapped opportunity for income generation, industrial growth and export development.
Speaking during a meeting convened by the Eswatini Standards Authority, at the Royal Villas today, Shabangu highlighted that poor animal husbandry practices and improper handling of hides continue to limit the country’s potential in the leather sector.
He noted that while livestock farming has traditionally been centered on meat production, the global market increasingly values high-quality hides used in manufacturing finished leather goods such as footwear, belts and handbags. According to Shabangu, improving the condition of hides through better livestock care, disease control and proper slaughtering techniques could significantly enhance farmers’ earnings.
“Farmers must understand that the value of an animal does not end with meat. The hide is a critical asset that, if well preserved, can fetch premium prices and contribute meaningfully to household incomes,” he said.
Shabangu further pointed out that Eswatini stands to benefit from expanding its leather value chain, which has the potential to stimulate local manufacturing, create jobs and reduce reliance on imported leather products. He added that strengthening standards and quality control mechanisms will be key to positioning the country competitively in regional and international markets.
The introduction of national grading standards for hides and skins, currently under development, is expected to play a pivotal role in improving quality assurance and transparency within the sector. These standards will guide farmers, abattoirs and processors on best practices, ensuring consistency and boosting market confidence.
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