Okello John Baptist, business manager of Uganda-based TEXFAD, told Africa Sputnik that the company found a solution to transform the otherwise discarded parts of the banana plant into valuable textiles. While the banana stem contains 85% biomass, TEXFAD focuses on the remaining 15% fiber, which has opened a global market for their sustainable and biodegradable products.
"All our products right now have a very high demand because of its nature of being sustainable, biodegradable, and meeting now the world standard," Baptist noted.
TEXFAD currently produces rugs, hair extensions, lampshades, eyeglass covers, and clock cases from banana fiber, with a high demand for all these products. The company is continually innovating, researching ways to cottonize banana fiber for use in spinning mills to produce yarn and fabric. They are also exploring the production of vegan leather from banana fiber.
"It's not a product we are producing for Uganda; It's a global product. And that doesn't mean I ignore Russia, with the relationship Uganda has with the country, we are open to partnerships and engagements, having [expertise ] because I know Russia is ahead when it comes to agricultural technology and all of that. So that is something we are very open to because, again, the same product can be consumed in Russia," John Baptist emphasized.
He also encouraged others to think creatively and critically and add value to resources often considered waste.