ITME Africa 2023: Transforming Kenya’s Textile Industry
The India ITME Society, successfully concluded the “Curtain Raiser & Preview” of the 2nd edition of ITME Africa & Middle East 2023 on October 3, 2023. The event is scheduled to take place from November 30th to December 2nd, 2023, in Nairobi, Kenya.
With over 80 years of development and a rapidly growing economy bolstered by advancing textile technology, Kenya is on track to become Africa’s Textile and Apparel Hub. As the host country for ITME Africa 2023, Kenya, a prominent member of the African Union and an active participant in the African Free Trade Area (AFTA), is poised to become the epicenter of Textile Technology & Engineering Industry for the entire African continent.
The event, held once every four years in Nairobi, Kenya, aims to promote joint ventures and business cooperation among textile and machine manufacturers. It serves as a catalyst for the modernization of the African Textile Industry and explores Kenya’s potential as a new business destination. In addition to India, 23 other countries will participate, including Austria, Benin, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Germany, Ghana, Italy, Jordan, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Togo, Turkey, Tunisia, Uganda, the United States of America, and Zambia.
Rohit Vadhwana, Deputy High Commissioner & DPR (UNEP & UN-HABITAT), High Commission of India, Nairobi
At the curtain raiser event, H.E. Shri Rohit Vadhwana, Deputy High Commissioner & DPR (UNEP & UN-HABITAT), High Commission of India, Nairobi, emphasized, “This Exhibition is a significant stride towards enhancing bilateral trade and promoting industrial cooperation between India & Kenya. This landmark partnership aims to harness the strengths of both nations and drive innovation, sustainability, and economic growth in the Textile Technology & Engineering sector.”
Dr. Juma Mukwana, Principal Secretary, State Department for Industry, Republic of Kenya
Chief Guest H.E. Dr. Juma Mukwana, Principal Secretary, State Department for Industry, Republic of Kenya, stated, “ITME Africa & Middle East 2023 hosted in Kenya shall draw more attention to the potential of the Kenyan textile industry and raise awareness about their products and capabilities, both domestically and internationally. This can lead to increased visibility and potential business inquiries, opening doors for Kenyan businesses to expand their customer base.”
Ketan Sanghvi, Chairman India ITME Society, expressed his optimism, “With 23 countries converging in Nairobi under the banner of India ITME Society, Africa will benefit tremendously in sowing the seeds for future partnerships and successful business on the African continent.”
Immediate Past Chairman Mr. S. Hari Shankar highlighted the importance of the latest and efficient technology, emphasizing that it is the key to economic success and trade dominion, both domestically and globally.
Ketan Sanghvi, Chairman India ITME Society
Newly elected Honorary Treasurer S. Senthil Kumar drew attention to the benefits of sector-specific business exhibitions for the focused growth of the textile industry.
During the curtain raiser, attendees were informed about various government schemes, facilities, and incentives available for foreign companies. Richard Cheruiyot, Board Chairman, Export Processing Zones Authority (EPZA), invited the industry to take advantage of EPZA’s facilities. June Chepkemei, Acting Managing Director, Kenya Investment Authority, and Ms. Ruth Wadenya Ouma, Partnerships Manager, Kenya Chamber of Commerce & Industry, highlighted Kenya’s strengths in providing a business-friendly environment.
ITME Africa & Middle East 2023 has been meticulously designed to foster a conducive business environment, promote textile and technology exchange, and provide necessary infrastructure support. The event aims to bring together a myriad of opportunities for textile businesses, institutes, students, associations, banks, investors, technology consultants, trainers, exporters, dealers, and agents, thus paving the way for entrepreneurship and start-up opportunities.
