Launch of Designing the Future, a Green and Inclusive Fashion Ecosystem

Hon. Susan Mang'eni together with the secretary to the cabinet Hon. Mercy Wanjau launched "Designing the Future, a Green and Inclusive Fashion Ecosystem" at the Don Bosco Training Institute. Alongside us were H.E. Roberto Natali, Italy Ambassador; Mr. Giovanni Grandi, Head of AICS Cooperazione Regional Office in Nairobi; Dr. Stephen Jackson, the United Nations Resident Coordinator for Kenya; Mr. Alex Musembi, Co-Founder of Africa Collect Textiles; and Ms. Lilian Kahiro, Director of Ushinde.
By fostering a robust and competitive ecosystem within Kenya's MSME sector, particularly those led by women and youth, we aim to drive our nation's economic growth and enhance its competitiveness in domestic, regional and global markets. The launch of "Designing the Future, a Green and Inclusive Fashion Ecosystem" signifies a crucial step towards this goal.
Principal Secretary MSME Development spearheaded by the Ethical Fashion Initiative (EFI) in collaboration with the Embassy of Italy and the Nairobi Regional Office of the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS). This initiative holds promise in nurturing sustainable fashion production and job creation in Kenya. By leveraging EFI's proven business model, which focuses on empowering artisans, micro-producers, and design entrepreneurs, especially women and youth, we aim to foster inclusive economic growth. Through specialized training, improved working conditions and increased access to markets with international fashion firms, this project will benefit 2,500 individuals from marginalized communities across Kenya.
Aligned with H.E. President William Ruto's commitment to leave no one behind, we recognize the crucial role of women as economic drivers and the importance of creating a sustainable job market. By promoting circular design and production, utilizing renewable energy sources, and integrating eco-friendly practices, we aim to enhance the environmental sustainability of Kenya's fashion industry.

Strategic partnerships such as those forged with EFI, AICS, and other stakeholders, will be instrumental in achieving our objectives. As we strive to support MSMEs, especially in the textile sector, we ensure competitive prices along the value chain and improve networking opportunities for these enterprises. With only 3.5 million of Kenya's population in formal employment, it's clear that growing the private sector is vital for building a resilient economy. Through initiatives like this, we empower MSMEs and lay the foundation for sustainable economic development and prosperity for all Kenyans.