A non-governmental organisation, TA Community, has unveiled Refab Africa, a sustainability-focused initiative aimed at addressing textile waste and reshaping fashion consumption in Nigeria.
The project introduces innovative solutions to extend the life of discarded clothing, combining environmental responsibility with economic opportunity. At the core of the initiative is the Mobile Cloth Bank, which collects all types of used garments from the public — whether wearable or not — preventing them from ending up in landfills.
Refab Africa Launches Textile Upcycling Initiative to Drive Climate Action in Nigeria
Speaking at the launch, Tunmise Johnson, Program Director of TA Community and Founder of Refab Africa, explained that reusable garments will be upcycled into new designs, while non-wearable textiles will be repurposed to create raw materials for various industries. He stressed that the programme is aligned with Nigeria’s national climate and waste management strategy, thanks to its collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Environment.
“Refab Africa is positioning itself as a primary collector and supplier of textile waste to upcyclers, while also stimulating market demand for upcycled products both locally and internationally,” Johnson said. “Every piece of clothing we rescue is a statement against waste, a step towards climate action, and a chance to restore dignity to communities.”
Highlighting government support, Minister of Environment Balarabe Lawal, represented by Dr. Bahijjahtu Abubakar, Director of Pollution Control and Environmental Health, noted the urgency of textile waste management in Nigeria. “While fashion remains vital to Nigeria’s economy and culture, it is also a significant source of global waste. Refab Africa embodies the very essence of circular fashion, sustainable innovation, and environmental responsibility,” he said.
The minister added that the initiative demonstrates the power of public-private collaboration, uniting government, creative entrepreneurs, development partners, and local communities in advancing a circular economy.
With its mix of upcycling, redistribution, and innovation, Refab Africa aims to position Nigeria as a leader in sustainable fashion solutions across Africa, while promoting climate action and community-driven change.
