The Namibian company, founded in 1986 by husband and wife duo Mr and Mrs Shilongo, has grown rapidly over the years and now looks towards a strong future with a greater range of products.
While working at a small upholstery company, during colonial times, Mr. Shilongo discovered his talent for leather crafting. Following much experimentation, he then began producing small products such as key holders and wallets which quickly became popular and he began getting orders from people. Realising the need for well-made, practical leather goods he and his wife decided to start the business; Mr Shilongo making the products and his wife taking them to the market to sell.
Without any financial investment from outside, their leather store has kept the Shilongo family production running for over 30 years. The day-to-day operations are now done by their children.
From modest beginnings the Shilongo’s leather business has grown into a company that has expanded, now having various stores in different cities, employing in excess of 50 workers.
With the high customer demand for diversity, Shilongo Leather Works plans to incorporate a large variety of new products. The business also plans to recruit more staff and they are offering on-the-job training, as a commitment to address the unemployment rate in the country.
