Ghana faces a significant environmental crisis due to the import of secondhand clothing, known locally as "Oburoni Wawu." The country imports approximately 152,600 tons of used clothing annually, making it a major hub for this trade in Africa. The influx of fast fashion has led to a decline in the quality of these garments, with about 40% becoming waste.
The Kantamanto market in Accra, one of Africa's largest, employs over 30,000 people in the used clothing trade. However, the waste generated poses serious environmental and health risks. Discarded clothing ends up in landfills, is sometimes dumped in the ocean, and when burned, releases harmful chemicals into the air.
In response, local designers and organizations are embracing creative recycling, transforming waste materials into new fashion products. Events like the Obroni Wawu October festival raise awareness about the environmental impact of fast fashion. The Ghana Used Clothing Traders Association (GUDCA) is also involved in initiatives like Landfills2Landmarks 2025, aiming to address textile waste management and promote circular economy practices.