The Kenyan textile industry is poised for a major boost with the creation of an estimated 20,000 new jobs. A joint announcement from the United States Embassy and Kenyan officials reveals that President William Ruto will be inaugurating a new clothing company, Nexgen Packaging Kenya, in Athi River on April 23, 2024. This new facility will specialize in the production of various garment accessories, including hangers, patches, and woven labels. These woven labels typically play a crucial role in consumer information, displaying details like fabric composition, such as “100% cotton.”
The investment is expected to significantly enhance Kenya’s apparel export capabilities, particularly towards the United States thus contributing to the nation’s foreign earnings. Notably, the factory’s establishment has been facilitated by a grant from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The event will be accompanied by a “Made in Kenya” expo, showcasing 14 Kenyan apparel and textile businesses that have benefited directly from American support. This expo serves to highlight the positive impact of US-Kenyan collaboration in strengthening the local textile sector.
News of Nexgen’s investment initially surfaced in December 2022. The company announcement emphasized its commitment to a diverse product portfolio, encompassing care labels, heat transfers, RFID tags, and woven labels. This comprehensive offering highlights Nexgen’s aim to provide a wide range of solutions to the African market with a particular emphasis on sustainable practices. The strategic decision to designate Kenya as the primary production hub for Africa affirms the nation’s growing importance in the textile industry. This new facility will undoubtedly complement existing operations in Ethiopia, Egypt, and West Africa.
