Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Trade awarded certificates of participation to trainees who successfully completed a four-day Piloting Training on Hides and Skins Traceability and Eco-Certification System Implementation.
The event, held in Ezulwini, was officiated by Acting Principal Secretary, Zamanyambose Mtetwa.
The training aimed to equip participants with essential skills for implementing traceability and eco-certification systems in the hides and skins value chain. These systems are designed to ensure transparency, accountability, and environmental sustainability while aligning the industry with global market standards.
In her address, Mtetwa highlighted the significance of such initiatives for fostering economic growth and promoting environmentally responsible practices.
“This training is a testament to our commitment to sustainable industrial development. By adopting traceability and eco-certification systems, we not only improve the quality of our products but also enhance their competitiveness on the global stage,” she said.
The hides and skins industry plays a vital role in the local economy, providing livelihoods in both rural and urban areas. However, the sector has faced challenges in meeting international standards for traceability and eco-certification, which are increasingly demanded by global markets.
To address these gaps, the Ministry has partnered with various stakeholders to modernize the sector. The recently concluded training was part of a broader initiative to ensure that products are traceable from source to final output while adhering to environmentally friendly practices.
The eco-certification system seeks to reduce the environmental footprint of production processes, aligning with global sustainability goals and enhancing the country’s reputation as a reliable exporter of quality hides and skins.
Participants expressed their appreciation for the training, emphasizing the practical skills gained. They said the training was a game-changer for them.
“We now understand how to implement systems that meet international standards, which will help us access more lucrative markets,” they said.
Industry stakeholders also welcomed the initiative, highlighting its potential to attract investment and improve the sector’s competitiveness. “Traceability and sustainability are no longer optional in today’s market. They are prerequisites. This training is a step in the right direction,” commented a representative from the private sector.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to supporting the industry through capacity-building programs and policy reforms. Mtetwa called on all stakeholders to embrace the changes and work collaboratively toward the successful implementation of traceability and eco-certification systems.
“As we move forward, it is imperative that we continue to innovate and adapt. The success of this program depends on the collective efforts of everyone involved,” she concluded.
The event concluded with participants receiving certificates and pledging to apply their newly acquired knowledge to enhance the sector’s sustainability and competitiveness.
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