In a vibrant and inspiring ceremony held at GNAT Hall in Accra, the Reclaim Textile Network (RTN) Ghana was officially launched, signaling a bold step toward sustainable fashion, waste innovation, and local design empowerment. The initiative, spearheaded by Dr. Christiana Konamah Okai-Mensah, aims to transform Ghana’s textile industry through upcycling, education, and community engagement.
Under the powerful theme “Reclaim, Revive, Reimagine”, the launch brought together educators, designers, students, environmentalists, and stakeholders from across the fashion and textile sectors. In her keynote address, Dr. Okai-Mensah, who also lectures at Accra Technical University, stressed the urgent need for collaboration and creativity in solving the growing challenge of textile waste.
“Reclaiming our textile heritage requires creativity, innovation, and collaboration,” she stated. “Together, we can build a sustainable future for Ghana’s fashion industry.”
The event featured a fashion show spotlighting stunning garments made entirely from recycled textiles, with young designers demonstrating the value of repurposed materials. Dr. Okai-Mensah added, “What I’m wearing is waste. The fashion show proves that waste, when repurposed, becomes valuable.”
Special Guest of Honour Beatrice “Bee” Arthur, a leading voice in Ghana’s fashion industry, applauded the initiative and urged greater investment in circular fashion systems.
RTN Ghana has already partnered with secondary schools and rehabilitation centers, highlighting the social and educational benefits of upcycling, particularly for vulnerable communities.
Despite the momentum, Dr. Okai-Mensah made a heartfelt call for support from government bodies, NGOs, and the private sector:
“I’ve used my own resources, but we need stakeholders to come on board. Money is hard to come by, but waste is everywhere. By reclaiming it, we clean our environment and empower communities.”
About Reclaim Textile Network Ghana
Founded by Dr. Christiana Konamah Okai-Mensah, RTN Ghana is dedicated to promoting circular fashion by converting textile waste into functional, creative products. The initiative fosters youth employment, skills development, and sustainable design while addressing environmental challenges in the fashion industry.
