Ghana and UNIDO plan a textile innovation centre to promote circular economy practices, sustainability and value addition in the textile sector.
Ghana, in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), is working on plans to set up a Textile Innovation and Testing Centre focused on circular economy practices, sustainability, and value addition in the textile sector.
The proposed Circular Economy Innovation and Textile Testing Centre is intended to help Ghana turn its increasing textile waste problem into an opportunity for industrial growth. The facility will form a key part of an Italy-funded UNIDO project being implemented in collaboration with Ghana’s Ministry of Trade and Industry. The initiative was recently discussed during a UNIDO visit to Ghana’s Embassy in Rome.
UNIDO officials explained that the centre will offer laboratory testing and technical support services for textile sorting and classification. It will also help detect harmful substances and support second-life industrial uses for discarded textiles. These applications may include producing materials for furniture, insulation boards, automotive parts, paper products, and even agricultural purposes.
The project addresses growing environmental concerns linked to Ghana’s position as one of the world’s largest importers of second-hand clothing. Figures shared during discussions revealed that only around 40% of imported garments are reused, while the remaining 60% become waste, causing pollution in drains, lagoons, and coastal areas—especially in and around Accra’s Kantamanto market.
Rather than focusing only on waste management, UNIDO’s strategy aims to create economic value by integrating innovation, testing facilities, and industrial connections into Ghana’s textile ecosystem. A mapping and validation process is currently underway to identify a suitable host institution for the centre, with Accra and Kumasi being considered. Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has emerged as a strong contender due to its research capabilities and textile expertise.
Talks in Rome also included plans for an Italy–Ghana Circular Economy Dialogue scheduled to take place in Accra on June 16–17, 2026. In addition, Ghana-focused investment roadshows are planned across several Italian cities between March and April, aimed at attracting private sector participation and technology partnerships.
UNIDO has requested support from Ghana’s Embassy in nominating a Ghanaian investment expert to engage with Italian companies and institutions on opportunities related to the textile and circular economy project.
Once established, the innovation and testing centre is expected to play a vital role in Ghana’s industrial development and sustainability goals by creating jobs, attracting investments, and reducing the environmental impact of the global textile trade through circular economy solutions.