2023-11-15 23:22:04
In banana-producing Uganda, small businesses recycle the waste that accumulates following the harvest. The fibers contained in the stem of banana plants can give rise to numerous derived products. But these initiatives that create added value remain isolated.
After harvest, the banana leaf stems are often left in the field until they rot and decompose. However, this part of the plant contains strong fibers which, once extracted, can be used in the manufacture of everyday objects.
Juliet Kakwerre Tumusiime smelled the potential of these banana fibers, harvested when the plant is still green: she transforms them into hair, used for the extensions of her brand, Cheveux Organic. The entrepreneur details the process: “ We go through an extraction process, which removes all the water contained in the stem, so that only the fiber remains. Then there are steps to process it and transform it into hair. »
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A quality… which has a cost
The artisanal processing of banana fibers is particularly widespread in India. A way to preserve the environment, because classic extensions, made of plastic, pollute enormously.
But this recycled product has a price: “ This hair respects the environment, it is biodegradable, it does not itch, it does not smell bad, and it can be styled like any other type of hair. In terms of cost, at the moment they are quite expensive… It’s a luxury product… But our production cost is quite high, because we are not fully mechanized. »
A first step is to publicize the benefits of the circular economy. Jane Nalunga, analyst for Seatini Uganda, describes a virtuous circle: “ Farmers who produce bananas can earn additional income from selling the stalks – and the products from them become part of the economy. »
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A sustainable and complementary economy
But due to lack of capital, production by hand remains modest. At the head of TextFad, Kimani Muturi dreams of importing machines to make fabric and wool from banana fibers in larger quantities: “ I realized that there was a shortage of materials for textile production. So, we embarked on research into the different types of fibers that might serve as raw materials… and banana fiber was a perfect match. As long as Ugandans produce banana and it is one of their staple foods, it is the most sustainable material to use and market through different products. »
Banana silk might be an avenue for local textile production, at a time when Uganda has decided to ban imports of second-hand clothing into its territory.
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