The economic heart of Côte d’Ivoire is playing host to a landmark event this week, as the third edition of the African Textile Care Professionals Forum (FAPET) kicks off in Abidjan-Plateau. Running from May 20 to 22, 2026, the forum brings together industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators from across Africa to tackle the challenges and opportunities in modernizing and industrializing the continent’s textile care sector.
Structuring growth, embracing green innovation
The three-day gathering is centered on the theme: “Building sustainable structures, driving ecological transition, and fostering innovation: paving the way for industrialized textile care in Africa.” The opening ceremony was graced by a senior representative of the Council for Economic, Social, Environmental and Cultural Affairs (CESEC), Soro Mamadou, who delivered a keynote address on behalf of CESEC President Dr. Eugène Aka Aouélé.
Speaking to delegates from nearly 20 African nations, Soro Mamadou emphasized the sector’s growing importance in Africa’s economic landscape. Once viewed as a secondary service industry, textile care is now recognized as a major contributor to job creation, environmental sustainability, and service excellence—particularly in sectors like healthcare and tourism.
“Africa must take charge of its own value chains,” he declared. “We need to upgrade our infrastructure, professionalize our workforce, and meet global standards to compete on the world stage.”
Overcoming structural hurdles
Despite its potential, the sector faces significant challenges. Yoboué Célestin-Arthur, President of the African Federation of Textile Care Professionals (FAPET), highlighted persistent issues such as the informal nature of many businesses, limited technical training, restricted access to financing, and the urgent need for sustainable practices.
He praised the strong participation of regional stakeholders, including Fayçal Belaroussi, Vice President of FAPET and head of Algeria’s National Pressing and Laundry Association, and Adebayo, President of the Fabricare Professionals and Dryclean Association. Their presence underscores a shared commitment to transforming the industry through shared knowledge and collaboration.
Paving the way for industrialization
The organizers have positioned this year’s forum as a catalyst for Côte d’Ivoire’s textile care economy. By facilitating public-private partnerships, fostering peer learning, and promoting eco-friendly technologies, the event aims to accelerate the sector’s transition from small-scale operations to large-scale industrial models.
Special focus sessions will explore best practices in managing hospital, industrial, and household linen, while also charting a roadmap for large-scale industrialization. With delegates from across West and Central Africa, the forum serves as a vital platform for exchanging solutions tailored to the continent’s unique economic and environmental realities.
