The annual African Textile Talks, an influential event dedicated to exploring the harmony between fashion, textiles, and nature, kicks off today at Workshop17, Watershed, V&A Waterfront. Featuring an impressive lineup of Pan-African makers and thinkers, this year’s event addresses the challenges and opportunities in transitioning the textile industry towards a sustainable, post-fossil fuel future.
Master of Ceremonies Africa Melane, host of the Early Breakfast show on CapeTalk and 702, will lead the discussions. The event welcomes distinguished guests such as Nkwo Onwuka, Josephine Musaka, Pamela Kyagera, Sammy Oteng, Muktar Dodo, and Johanna Bramble.
Key Speakers and Highlights
Nkwo Onwuka: A leading Nigerian fashion designer and sustainability advocate, Onwuka will deliver the keynote address. Her brand, NKWO, is renowned for its innovative techniques that minimize textile waste and promote cultural heritage through collaborations with regional artists and communities.
Sammy Oteng: Representing Ghana’s The Or Foundation, Oteng’s work focuses on repurposing secondhand clothing and addressing environmental justice. His efforts include developing circular product designs and waste management solutions to combat clothing waste in Ghana.
Muktar Dodo: As the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) representative for Africa, Dodo promotes organic and sustainable textile practices across the continent. His work facilitates environmentally friendly manufacturing processes and supports local communities.
Johanna Bramble: A West African-based artist and textile designer, Bramble integrates traditional weaving with modern materials, creating contemporary textile art. Her innovative designs have made significant contributions to the global textile industry.
Josephine Musaka and Pamela Kyagera: Founders of Mekeka Design in Uganda, Musaka and Kyagera are leaders in textiles and crafts. Their collaborative studio supports artisans and promotes sustainable practices in the Ugandan craft sector.
Local Contributions
South African experts such as Ayanda Bam, Lindsay Humphreys, Krelyne Andrew, Beauty Mokgwamme, Rupert Koopman, Caroline Nelson, and Deon Saayman will also share their insights. These speakers bring extensive experience in sustainable textile production, regenerative farming, and conservation.
Event Schedule
- 15 August 2024: Africa Textile Talks at Workshop17, Watershed, V&A Waterfront
- 16 August 2024: Tours of textile factories and studios
- 17 August 2024: Slow Fashion Festival at V&A Watershed and 44 Stanley, V&A Waterfront, 10:00 to 14:00
Supported by notable partners like Sappi, Polo South Africa, Cape Wools SA, Mohair South Africa, H&M, Merchants on Long, Hemporium, and GOTS, the African Textile Talks 2024 promises to inspire and pave the way for a sustainable and regenerative future in the fashion and textile industry.
