Textile, Fashion Expo To Revive African Textile Mills.

Women in Business and Tourism Nigeria (WIBAT), says its African Textile and Fashion Expo (ATFE) aims to revive African textile mills and empower Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

President, Mrs Sophia Khan, who was the Chief Organiser of the expo, said this in Abuja during the opening ceremony of 2024 ATFE themed “Time for Africa”.

According to her, the expo is aimed to revive Africa’s textile mills and empower SMEs to thrive as it connects African artisans, designers, and entrepreneurs with international buyers and investors through initiatives like the village market.

She added that the expo would create an internationally recognised platform for the textile and fashion industries by showcasing Africa’s rich heritage and positioning it as a global leader in sustainable, ethical and innovative fashion.

“This year’s event celebrates beauty, creativity, and growth, redefining the industry for the future.

“The primary objectives include promoting trade and investment opportunities in apparel, textile, and creative sectors, as well as  connecting with buyers, industry leaders, investors and fostering collaboration for a thriving industry.

“It is a gathering of visionaries,  creators, entrepreneurs, and innovators  across Africa,” she said.

The organiser stressed that the expo would strengthen the visibility of African intra-trade by empowering SMEs through advocacy and regional partnerships.

The WIBAT boss added that master classes would cover topics like branding, textile sustainability, and ethical fashion practices.

Speaking on the theme of the expo, Khan said it would celebrate the thriving textile and fashion industry in Africa, highlighting the country’s legacy, culture, and creativity.

“The event is to celebrate and partner with Africa’s thriving industry, showcasing the unique designs and materials that embody the country’s values and heritage.

“The village market will showcase African textiles and designs, allowing entrepreneurs and creatives to sell their work and  Tribal Lounge and Village Square will combine traditional heritage with modern fashion, promoting cultural experiences.

“Hut around it will showcase traditional and contemporary African art and textile design, while grand finale will feature ten renowned designers, celebrating African excellence,” she stressed.

According to her, the collaboration is crucial for enhancing the industry and securing Africa’s place on the world stage.

She encouraged the participants to take advantage of every moment, make connections, learn, and collaborate to ensure the African textile and fashion industry thrives and leaves a lasting impact on the global industry.

“This will emphasise the importance of Africa’s talent, dedication, and unique perspectives in the industry,” she added.

Also speaking, Mrs Mariam Abdullahi, Department of Tourism  Management Technology kaduna, said fashion and textile industry which integrated the African cultural textile would highlight the beauty of Nigerian garments to raise  morals among  young girls.

According to her, the integration will help to build Nigeria’s cottage industry and people will be able to come and buy what we have.