ASFW Nairobi 2026 – Africa’s Biggest Expo for Textile, Apparel, Leather and Fashion Sourcing

The 5th edition of Africa Sourcing and Fashion Week (ASFW) Nairobi will take place from 30 April to 2 May 2026 at the Sarit Expo Centre, reaffirming its position as East Africa’s leading platform for the textile, apparel, leather, and fashion industries. Previously known as the East Africa Textile & Leather Week (EATLW), the event has rebranded under the prestigious ASFW global brand, which originated in Addis Ababa and is recognized as Sub-Saharan Africa’s largest sourcing event.

Kenya – A Strategic Host for the Industry

Kenya, the host country, is the ninth-largest African economy with a GDP of $55.2 billion and is ranked as the most preferred investment destination in East Africa. Strong infrastructure, ease of doing business, and sustained economic reforms have positioned Kenya as a hub for trade and manufacturing, particularly in textiles and leather. The Ernst & Young Africa Attractiveness Index ranks Kenya fourth on the continent, after South Africa, Morocco, and Egypt.

Kenya’s Textile and Garment Industry

Kenya’s textile and apparel sector includes spinning mills producing yarn and sewing thread, integrated mills manufacturing a wide variety of fabrics and products, and garment manufacturers serving both local and export markets.

• Capacity: 52 textile mills (15 operational, under 45% capacity)
• Enterprises: ~170 medium/large apparel companies, ~74,000 small and micro companies
• Export Processing Zones: 21 companies employing an average of 1,800 people each

The industry benefits from ready access to local, regional, and international markets, supported by attractive investment incentives and production advantages.

Kenya’s Leather and Leather Products Industry

The leather sector is a major contributor to the global economy, valued at ~$100 billion annually and projected to grow to $500 billion by 2027. Kenya’s leather industry is estimated to be worth over Sh50 billion annually. However, more than 90% of exports are unfinished wet blue leather, representing significant untapped potential. The government’s revitalization policy aims to boost finished leather production, create 50,000 jobs, and generate an additional $150–250 million for the GDP.

A Proven Industry Platform

The 2024 edition of ASFW Nairobi attracted 2,150 visitors from over 30 countries and 150+ exhibitors from Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. The event also featured 12 conference sessions, 30+ expert speakers, and showcased innovations in sustainability, textile machinery, leather goods, and accessories.

Looking Ahead to 2026

ASFW Nairobi 2026 is expected to welcome 3,000+ visitors, including buyers, designers, policymakers, and sustainability advocates. The event will spotlight eco-conscious fashion, circular economy strategies, and digital sourcing trends, while creating opportunities for local and international partnerships