Sierra Leone Turns to Traditional Textiles to Diversify Economy and Create Jobs

Sierra Leone is betting on its traditional textiles to drive economic diversification, as designers and policymakers work to revive a sector that once defined local craftsmanship. Inside her Freetown studio, designer Frederica Williams, founder of Just Fabulous Heritage and president of the Fashion Design and Textiles Association (FDTA), oversees a team of over 20 tailors transforming Krio Print, gara cloth, and country cloth into contemporary fashion. “We’ve been working on rejuvenating traditional designs and reinventing them for contemporary styling,” Williams said. “That way we preserve our heritage while promoting Sierra Leone internationally.”

For decades, Sierra Leone’s economy has relied heavily on mining, but officials now see textiles as a path to inclusive growth. The Ministry of Trade and Industry has prioritized garments under the Made in Sierra Leone Strategy and Local Content Policy. Emmanuel Billy Konjo, Chief Director at the ministry, said, “We are looking at the entire value chain so our people can benefit. We must promote what we wear and wear what we produce.”

Economist Dr. Mohamed Ibrahim Justice Ganawah noted that the Sub-Saharan African fashion market, valued at US$31 billion in 2020, offers substantial opportunities. Unlike mining, textiles create jobs across multiple stages, from cotton farming to retail. “In a country rebuilding formal employment, this is exactly the type of sector that creates inclusive growth,” he said.

The industry faces challenges, including a decline in local cotton production as farmers move to mining. Williams is advocating for a revival of cotton farming and stronger intellectual property protections. The government is exploring incentives under trade agreements like AGOA and AfCFTA to boost exports.

Designers like Abdulai Mansaray are already finding international success, selling streetwear made from country cloth at Accra Fashion Week. “I want the world to know Sierra Leone has unique textiles,” Mansaray said. With coordinated efforts, stakeholders believe the sector can preserve cultural heritage while becoming a commercial force.

Article and image source: allafrica.com