Kenya Fashion Week: Sustainability Drives Industry Transformation

The Kenya Fashion and Design Week celebrated creativity, sustainability, and the strategic advancement of Kenya’s textile, apparel, leather, and footwear industries.

Under the theme “Empowering Kenya’s Fashion Industry Through Sustainability, Innovation, and Collaboration,” the event held Wednesday underscored the critical role of domestic production, value chain integration, and strategic policy in establishing Kenya as a prominent global fashion center.

Tobias Alando, CEO of the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), emphasized the necessity of bolstering local industries by mitigating reliance on imports and advocating for policies that foster sustainable fashion practices. “We must prioritize domestic consumption where production capabilities exist, directly contributing to local job creation. Excessive importation creates detrimental economic imbalances,” stated Mr. Alando.

Addressing the impact of mitumba (second-hand clothing) on local manufacturing, Mr. Alando highlighted the policy-driven challenges faced by domestic producers. “Historically, Kenya’s textile sector was a significant employer. However, the surge in second-hand clothing imports, coupled with inequitable taxation, has impeded local production. We require a balanced policy approach that safeguards our industry while ensuring consumer affordability,” he added.

Jayesh Shah, KAM Local Textiles and Apparel Sector Chairperson, articulated manufacturing-centric concerns, including elevated cargo costs, the evolving landscape of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), and the impact of illicit trade. “While AGOA has facilitated export market expansion, uncertainties regarding its future are unsettling the apparel sector. We need robust, long-term policies to ensure industrial resilience beyond AGOA,” stated Mr. Shah.

Mr. Shah also clarified that while strategic fabric imports remain necessary, a comprehensive policy framework is essential to enhance local production. “Strengthening measures against illicit trade and addressing high cargo costs are crucial to fostering a thriving fashion and textile industry,” he emphasized.

Prof. Erastus Gatebe, Industrialisation Secretary from the State Department for Industry, reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting cotton farmers and enhancing market access for Kenyan designers. “The government is actively supporting cotton farmers to revitalize local textile production and secure raw material supply. We are also facilitating market access to enable Kenyan designers and manufacturers to penetrate global markets, positioning Kenya as a leading fashion and textile hub,” he affirmed.

Edna Kerubo, DHL Commercial Manager, highlighted the logistics sector’s pivotal role in enhancing Kenya’s global competitiveness. “DHL is committed to sustainability, demonstrated through the electrification of our last-mile delivery fleet, carbon-efficient building designs, and the use of clean fuels in shipping operations,” she stated.

This annual event, in partnership with The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office through TradeMark Africa; DHL, IDH and the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry (MITI), will continue to serve as a vital platform for industry leaders, designers, manufacturers, and policymakers to shape the future of Kenya’s fashion industry.