During the colonial era, the Dutch introduced a machine-made imitation of Indonesian batik. But Indonesians, honouring their traditional craft, said 'no, thank you'. Sometime in the late 19th century, the Dutch rerouted the fabric to West Africa where it found new life. There, women traders turned it into a thriving business and a symbol of African couture.
A colonial leftover, repurposed into pride and identity.
Fast-forward to 2025. The West still exports its excess, mountains of “B-type” or second-hand clothes, to be dealt with elsewhere. Waste capitalism. In Accra (Ghana) alone, 15 million garments arrive every week. They call them Dead White Man’s Clothes.
Less than 1% of clothing is recycled. The textile industry is only 0.3% circular. And yet, it keeps growing, for profit. For shareholder value.
Value that rarely accounts for those left cleaning up the mess; people, land, and water. But there’s also resilience. Across Africa, designers and communities are reclaiming this waste, transforming it into something new. From trash to treasure.
This quilt highlights just some of the layers of power, waste, and survival. Fabric for thought.
A colonial leftover, repurposed into pride and identity.
Fast-forward to 2025. The West still exports its excess, mountains of “B-type” or second-hand clothes, to be dealt with elsewhere. Waste capitalism. In Accra (Ghana) alone, 15 million garments arrive every week. They call them Dead White Man’s Clothes.
Less than 1% of clothing is recycled. The textile industry is only 0.3% circular. And yet, it keeps growing, for profit. For shareholder value.
Value that rarely accounts for those left cleaning up the mess; people, land, and water. But there’s also resilience. Across Africa, designers and communities are reclaiming this waste, transforming it into something new. From trash to treasure.
This quilt highlights just some of the layers of power, waste, and survival. Fabric for thought.
