A non-governmental organisation, TA Community has launched Refab Africa, an initiative dedicated to tackling textile waste and promoting sustainable fashion.
The project, led by TA Community, seeks to transform how communities view and handle discarded clothing while creating economic opportunities through upcycling and redistribution.
Through its flagship Mobile Cloth Bank, Refab Africa collects all types of used clothing — whether in good or bad condition — from the public, preventing them from ending up in landfills.
Speaking at the launch, Program Director of TA Community and Founder of Refab Africa, Tunmise Johnson said usable garments are upcycled into new designs, while other textiles are repurposed to extend their lifecycle.
He said that the initiative is being implemented in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Environment, ensuring alignment with Nigeria’s national climate and waste management agenda.
Johnson said: “Positioning itself as a primary collector and supplier of textile materials to upcyclers, Refab Africa is also working to create stronger market demand for upcycled products and serve as a major distributor of upcycled materials to both local and international markets. This approach supports circular economy growth, encourages sustainable production, and drives innovation in fashion and textiles.
“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.”
Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal said that while the fashion industry plays a vital role in Nigeria’s culture and economy, it is also a major source of global waste.
Lawal, who was represented at the event by the Director, Pollution Control and Environmental Health in the ministry, Dr. Bahijjahtu Abubakar, said: “In Nigeria, where the textile sector is vibrant and our population continues to grow, this issue is particularly urgent. However, where some see waste, we alongside, the brilliant minds behind Refab Africa – see immense opportunity for transformation.
“This event, with its focus on sustainable innovation, circular fashion, and environmental responsibility through creative textile upcycling, embodies the very essence of our environmental and developmental aspirations. It is a testament to the power of collaboration, bringing together government, creative entrepreneurs, development partners, and the public to co-create community-driven solutions.
“The ministry has been working in close partnership with TA Community, and we commend their unwavering dedication and foresight. We encourage all Nigerians to embrace the spirit of Refab Africa – to see old clothes with new eyes, to support sustainable businesses, and to join in building a future where fashion is circular, inclusive and environmentally responsible.”
Special Assistant on One Health to the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Oluwafemi Idowu-Adegoke said the initiative would lead to financial independence for marginalised groups.
He also said the global circular textile market will hit $70 billion by 2030, urging African countries to tap into it.
Idowu-Adegoke said: “Let us be clear: this is not just a textile initiative. This is a climate solution. This is an economic opportunity. This is a gender equity accelerator.”
Executive Director, Grace Smile Foundation, Ogheneyoleme Itive lauded the initiative, saying it provided an opportunity to empower people.
She said: “This event is a chance to see upcycling in action to witness how a discarded shirt can become someone’s new favorite outfit, how waste can spark opportunity, and how small actions can ripple out to create jobs, reduce landfill waste, and uplift communities. It’s a reminder that sustainability isn’t just about protecting the environment; it’s about empowering people and building a future where everyone has a place.
“As we move through today’s program, I encourage you to participate with open hearts. Talk to each other, share your ideas, and let’s inspire one another to carry this momentum forward. Let’s leave here today not just with new knowledge, but with a renewed sense of purpose to make a difference in our communities and beyond.”
A climate finance expert, Omolola Idowu, said: “In a world facing environmental challenges, initiatives like this remind us that the choices we make, whether in production, consumption, or disposal, have a direct impact on our future.
“This movement birth new life to old fabrics and transform what we consider as waste into wealth. At Refab Africa, we are not just reducing our carbon footprint, we are rewriting the story of fashion itself.”
The event featured exhibitions of upcycled designs, live demonstrations of textile transformation, and a call for partnerships from individuals, fashion brands, and corporate organizations committed to climate action.