VOICED : Designer launches luxury handbag company in Ethiopia

Abby, adopted from Ethiopia at 11, returns 15 years later to start a luxury leather bag business. Her company not only produces high-quality bags but also creates jobs in Ethiopia, employing 17 people. Despite challenges like power cuts and finding skilled staff, her business thrives, exporting over 400 bags monthly and opening a store in Addis Ababa. The business supports local entrepreneurship and generates foreign currency. With Ethiopia's dynamic economy, Abby is optimistic about the luxury sector's growth.

What motivated Abby to start a leather bag business in Ethiopia?

• The large livestock population in Ethiopia

• Her family's business background

• A government initiative

• A personal interest in fashion

What is one of the main challenges Abby faces in running her business?

• High import taxes

• Competition from international brands

• Frequent power cuts

• Lack of raw materials

How many designers does Abby's company employ?

• 15

• 5

• 10

• 20

What is the price range of the bags produced by Abby's company?

• $20 to $200

• $100 to $1000

• $70 to $700

• $50 to $500

How does Abby's business contribute to Ethiopia's economy?

• By increasing tourism

• By lowering inflation

• By generating foreign currency

• By reducing unemployment