The highly anticipated East Africa Textile and Leather Week (EATLW) 2023 commenced with a remarkable opening ceremony at Arabuko Hall, Sarit Expo Center. The three-day conference and exhibition, taking place from June 28 to 30, 2023, brings together key industry stakeholders and thought leaders from around the globe to explore the vast potential of East Africa’s garment manufacturing sector.
The apparel and textile industry in Africa, estimated to be valued at $31 billion in 2020, has become the continent’s second-largest sector after agriculture. With its continuous growth, this industry holds tremendous potential for job creation, particularly for women and youth. EATLW 2023 aims to be a game-changer in the East African textile landscape, serving as a meeting platform for the home textile, leather accessories and footwear industries.
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EATLW 2023 Highlights East Africa’s Textile and Leather Potential
Skander Negasi, Organizer & CEO of Trade and Fairs GmbH, expressed his excitement for EATLW 2023, saying, “EATLW aims to be a transformative event that propels the East African textile and leather industry to new heights.
We are thrilled to bring together industry stakeholders and thought leaders from around the world to explore the immense potential of this sector and foster meaningful collaborations. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and craftsmanship, EATLW is set to shape the future of the region’s fashion landscape.
Featuring 150 exhibitors from East Africa, the Middle East and Asia, as well as 3,500 wholesalers, retailers, chains, manufacturers and dealers from East and Central Africa, EATLW 2023 showcases the region’s vibrant fashion, textile and leather industry. Attendees have the opportunity to engage in discussions, explore business opportunities and gain insights into sustainability, innovation and craftsmanship.
Read more: Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) Shines at EATLW 2024 Conference
Industry Leaders Gather at Sarit Expo Center in Nairobi
Thomas Wimmer, Head of Mission at the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany to Kenya, highlighted the exhibition’s role in celebrating the region’s fashion, textile and leather industry and providing participants with a broader view of the East African textile landscape. The event also creates opportunities for international stakeholders to exchange ideas and establish new business relationships.
The opening ceremony was honored by the presence of Dr. Juma Mukhwana, the Chief Guest and Principal Secretary for Industry, representing the Government of Kenya. In his address, Dr. Mukhwana highlighted the government’s commitment to developing the textile and leather value chains, recognising their importance in driving national prosperity.
