Africa Collect Textiles is righting the wrongs of the oppressive Second hand market

The article follows ACT co-founders Alex Musembi and Elmar Stroomer as they discuss the environmental and social impacts of exported second-hand clothing, the lack of textile recycling infrastructure in many African countries, and the need for more responsible global systems.

The piece highlights ACT’s journey from a small collection initiative to a growing circular textile organization with 40 collection points across Nairobi. It also explores ACT’s work in textile collection, sorting, reuse, recycling, upcycling, women-led mini bale distribution programmes, and traditional weaving initiatives that create dignified green jobs and extend textile lifecycles.

Why this Matters

The article contributes to important conversations around textile justice, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and the role African countries play within the global second-hand clothing economy. It also highlights the importance of investing in local circular infrastructure, supporting waste workers, and building systems that reduce textile pollution while creating sustainable livelihoods.