Bridging Borders: The Call for Global Policy Synergy to Advance Sustainable Fashion
Nairobi, Kenya – February 3, 2025 – The transformative role of national and global policies in shaping Kenya’s textile industry was the focal point at Nairobi Fashion Week 2025. Industry leaders, designers, and policymakers convened under the theme, “Regenerative Fashion Renaissance: Restoring Culture and Nature,” to discuss how harmonizing policies can drive sustainability, foster innovation, and secure Kenya’s place in the global fashion landscape.
The event highlighted the critical influence of trade agreements, environmental regulations, and domestic policies on Kenya’s textile value chain—from raw material sourcing to production and exports. As the global fashion industry pivots towards sustainability, technological advancement, and ethical practices, Kenya must align with these shifts to remain competitive.
At Nairobi Fashion Week 2025, industry leaders, designers, and policymakers gathered to discuss the transformative role of national and global policies in shaping Kenya’s textile industry.Under the theme "Regenerative Fashion Renaissance: Restoring Culture and Nature,"#nairobifashionhub #fashion
— Nairobi Fashion Hub (@nairobifashionhub.bsky.social) 2025-02-05T08:39:04.349Z
Global Trends Reshaping Fashion
In recent years, the European Union (EU) has introduced groundbreaking regulations to enhance sustainability within the fashion industry. The EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan and the Sustainable Product Initiative set ambitious targets to reduce textile waste and promote recycling. These regulations mandate eco-friendly practices throughout the product lifecycle, from production to disposal, compelling global textile producers to adopt greener methods.
Kenya’s textile industry stands at a crossroads, with an urgent need to adapt to these evolving international standards. “Kenya’s textile industry holds immense potential to thrive on the global stage, but achieving this requires a seamless integration of national policies with international expectations. From sustainability certifications to technological advancements and trade agreements, we need a cohesive strategy that empowers local producers while ensuring they can compete globally,” emphasized Professor Josphat Idagwa, Associate Professor of Textile Engineering at Moi University.
Kenya’s Progress in Sustainable Fashion
Kenya has made notable strides in sustainability through proactive national policies and initiatives. The 2017 ban on single-use plastics positioned Kenya as a pioneer in Africa’s fight against pollution. Additionally, the National Environmental Policy of 2030 addresses the management of industrial chemicals, including those used in fashion production. The Green Economy Strategic Plan (2016-2030) promotes low-emission economic activities and energy efficiency, while the National Climate Change Action Plan (NCCAP) focuses on climate adaptation and sustainable development.
Sustainable fashion brands in Kenya are increasingly integrating renewable energy into their supply chains and production processes. The Sustainable Waste Management Act, with its extended producer responsibility clause, mandates that businesses develop recycling strategies for waste generated from their products. However, challenges persist, particularly regarding second-hand clothing (mitumba) and textile waste management.
“A solution would be to set up a producer responsibility organization to manage waste collectively. Additionally, taxing second-hand clothes at the point of entry could fund waste recovery efforts by informal waste pickers,” suggested Jeremy Kaburu, a Circular Economy and Research Specialist.
The event highlighted how trade agreements,environmental regulations,& local policies are influencing Kenya’s textile industry from raw material sourcing to production & exports.The global fashion industry is increasingly characterized by sustainability,technological innovation,& ethical practices.
— Nairobi Fashion Hub (@nairobifashionhub.bsky.social) 2025-02-05T08:43:50.715Z
The Need for Global Policy Synergy
While Kenya’s achievements in sustainable fashion are commendable, experts argue that global policy alignment is essential for accelerating progress. Policies such as Kenya’s plastic ban and support for sustainable agriculture are foundational, but their impact can be amplified through cohesive international collaboration.
“National and global policies have a profound impact on the textile industry, both here in Kenya and globally. Locally, trade regulations, import tariffs, and support for sustainable practices shape our fashion sector’s growth. Globally, the EU’s sustainability regulations set new benchmarks that Kenyan designers must meet. Nairobi Fashion Week provides a platform for these critical discussions, emphasizing that our policies should foster business growth while prioritizing environmental stewardship and social responsibility,” stated Brian Kihindas, Creative Director of Nairobi Fashion Week.
These laws are pushing textile producers worldwide to adopt more eco-friendly practices.For Kenya’s textile industry to remain competitive and unlock its full potential, it must adapt to these evolving global trends while strengthening its domestic regulatory framework.
— Nairobi Fashion Hub (@nairobifashionhub.bsky.social) 2025-02-05T08:48:48.531Z
About Nairobi Fashion Week
Founded by Dynamic Race PR in 2013, Nairobi Fashion Week (NFW) aims to elevate East Africa’s fashion industry by connecting emerging and established designers with local and international buyers. In 2023, NFW launched the JUST Fashion campaign, promoting sustainability through ethical sourcing and eco-friendly production. The Fashion Frontier Africa (FFA) incubator program, launched in partnership with European e-tailer Cultrite, supports African designers with mentorship and business development. After completing its first cohort, FFA aims to reach 500 African designers. Having successfully completed six seasons, NFW remains a driving force in shaping Africa’s fashion future.
Content courtesy of Nairobi Fashion Week & NFH Digital Team
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