In recent years, the African leather industry, including countries like Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, has faced a concerning trend in the export of “wet blue,” shipping raw leather abroad. Despite producing and exporting leather commonly used for bags, knock-offs made of imitation leather and plastic flood the continent’s marketplaces due to affordability issues among consumers.
Leading the fight against knockoffs is the Kenyan luxury leather goods brand, Joka Jok. Committed to working exclusively with Kenyan and African leather, their mission is to keep jobs within the continent, eradicate knockoffs, and eliminate the prevalence of imitation leather and plastic items.
Founder Ted Josiah emphasizes the importance of preserving authentic craftsmanship, a commitment resonating with local artisans like Allen, founder of Pamoja Deco. Concerns arise about potential frustration driving young talents abroad, discouraging them from pursuing creative passions in Africa.
By Dominique Galbraith