Role of Knowledge Management Practices in Enhancing Innovation and Competitiveness in the Ethiopian Leather Industry

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the study was to investigate the role of knowledge management practices in enhancing innovation and competitiveness in the Ethiopian leather industry.
 Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
 Findings: The role of knowledge management practices in enhancing innovation and competitiveness in the Ethiopian leather industry is significant. Through effective knowledge management strategies, such as knowledge sharing, transfer, and utilization, firms can capitalize on their intellectual capital to foster innovation and improve competitiveness. By leveraging existing knowledge assets and creating a culture of continuous learning and innovation, Ethiopian leather companies can position themselves for sustained growth and success in both domestic and international markets.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Resource-based view (RBV) theory, dynamic capabilities theory & social capital theory may be used to anchor future studies on the role of knowledge management practices in enhancing innovation and competitiveness in the Ethiopian leather industry. Organizations within the Ethiopian leather industry should invest in capacity-building programs to enhance employees' knowledge management capabilities. Government policies should be formulated to support knowledge management initiatives and innovation in the Ethiopian leather industry.