Challenges and Opportunities Facing Textile Industries in Kenya in the Wake of Africa Growth and Opportunity Act

The textiles industry has been in existence for a very long time in Kenya. Textile industry grew rapidly after the Kenya’s independence due to government support and protection offered to textiles firms under the import substitution strategy and facilitation to locate textile industries into major towns in the country. In mid 1980’s production fell incredibly due to liberalization and change in policy reform which enhanced competition by importation of cheap and high quality secondhand clothes. The restoration of the textile and apparel industry in Kenya was expedited by the enactment of AGOA which opened up the opportunity for growth. AGOA market assurances fastened the investments in textile and apparel industry in Kenya. Despite the extension of AGOA it doesn‘t give adequate confidence to the private investors. The ongoing liberalization, globalization, and technological advancements albeit simplifying sourcing arrangements give no confidence. Despite the Kenya textiles and apparels sector having great potential to spur economic growth, the textile sector has been declining over the years causing acute decline in the number of employment.