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Burao Tannery
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The Burao Tannery is one of Somaliland's most significant industrial facilities, playing a critical role in the processing and export of animal hides and leather products. Since its establishment, the factory has primarily processed sheep and goat skins from the surrounding Togdheer region, which are highly valued in global markets for their texture and durability. The facility employs both traditional and modern chemical tanning techniques to prepare raw materials for the international footwear and garment sectors. During the peak of Somali industrialization in the 1970s and 1980s, Burao emerged as a central hub for leather production in the Horn of Africa. Currently, the tannery provides vital employment in a region where pastoralism is the backbone of the local economy. Recent technological upgrades have focused on improving wastewater management and enhancing the quality of processed skins to meet contemporary environmental and industrial standards.
- Location: Somalia
- Top sights: yuroobe · ciise m warshada 12 · ciise m warshada 13
- Nearby: Sheikh (52 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 21 | 22 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 25 | 22 | 21 |
| Rain mm | 5 | 4 | 12 | 68 | 36 | 17 | 8 | 17 | 24 | 32 | 24 | 11 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Burao Tannery is an important processing center for leather goods, as Burao is a central transit hub for Somaliland's livestock trade. It converts raw hides into export-ready leather products, supporting the regional economy.
Visiting
The tannery is an active industrial facility, typically not open to the public. Visitors can see the premises from the nearby main road and occasionally spot trucks carrying hides.
Where to view it
From the road between Burao and the Ethiopian border, you get a good view of the tannery and surrounding warehouses. A small hill east of town has another perspective on the industrial area.
Local products
In Burao, travellers can buy tanned hides and simple leather goods like belts and bags at the livestock market. Seasonal products are not typical, but the market is liveliest after major cattle fairs.
Active season
The tannery is most active during the dry season, when livestock markets in Somaliland are most frequent (December to April). Hide processing follows the animal shipments from the interior.
Nearby
Combine the visit with a stop at Burao Central Market and the livestock market to experience local trading life. The nearby Nugaal hills offer hiking opportunities with views over the vast savanna.
Geography
Facts
- Burao is the second-largest livestock trading hub in the Horn of Africa.
- The tannery processes tens of thousands of hides annually for international export.
- The Togdheer region supplies the majority of raw skins to the facility.
- Leather products from Burao are exported to markets including Italy and the Gulf states.
- The facility was significantly expanded in the 1970s under state industrial plans.
- The plant employs specialized chrome tanning processes for leather preservation.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Burao Tannery (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the function of Gerberei Burao?
It processes raw hides from livestock into durable leather.
Can groups visit the factory?
Tours are generally not possible as it is a purely production-based site.
Why is Burao economically important?
Burao is an important trading hub for the exchange of livestock and agricultural products.
What is the best time to visit Burao?
The milder months away from extreme heat are recommended.
Are there local markets nearby?
Yes, Burao is famous for its bustling markets and livestock trade.
Burao Tannery: where is it located?
Burao Tannery is located in Somalia.
Burao Tannery: what is there to see?
Highlights include yuroobe, ciise m warshada 12, ciise m warshada 13.
Burao Tannery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Burao Tannery: why is it worth visiting?
The Burao Tannery is one of Somaliland's most significant industrial facilities, playing a critical role in the processing and export of animal hides and leather products.
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