Refab Africa, an initiative aimed at tackling textile waste has launched a mobile cloth bank to promote circular fashion, reduce environmental pollution, and create green jobs.
Led by TA Community in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Environment, the project seeks to transform discarded clothing into valuable resources through upcycling, redistribution, and innovative recycling solutions.
Speaking at the launch in Abuja Tunmise Johnson, Program Director of TA Community and founder of Refab Africa, described the movement as a cross-cutting solution to climate change and waste.
Johnson explained that the Mobile Cloth Bank will collect all types of used clothing from the public, whether in good or bad condition, preventing them from ending up in landfills. Usable garments will be upcycled into fresh designs, while worn-out textiles will be repurposed to extend their lifecycle.
“Refab Africa is not just a project, it’s a movement. Every piece of clothing we rescue is a statement against waste, a step towards climate action, and a chance for someone to regain dignity through what they wear. It is a cross-cutting solution because everybody wears clothes, making this a cause that truly connects us all,”
Positioning itself as a primary collector and supplier of textile materials for upcyclers, He said that Refab Africa aims to strengthen market demand for sustainable products locally and internationally, driving innovation in fashion and textiles.
Representing the Minister of Environment, Bahijjahtu Abubakar, Director of Pollution Control and Environmental Health, reaffirmed government support, noting the urgent need to address the fashion industry’s environmental footprint.
“The launch of the Abuja Cloth Bank and the various initiatives showcased today, from upcycling programs for fashion designers to social mobilization campaigns, are more than just projects. They are powerful declarations of intent,”
She stated that the initiative aims to reduce waste by extending the lifespan of clothing and repurposing textile scraps, significantly reducing the volume of landfill waste and environmental pollution.
“Promote Circularity: Moving away from the traditional
“take-make-dispose”, we embrace a system where resources are reused and reimagined for maximum value,”
She also stated that the initiative will foster economic empowerment, green jobs and support opportunities for tailors, designers, and small business owners by turning waste into wealth.
“The Ministry has been working in close partnership with TA Community, and we commend their unwavering dedication.”
