Welcome To PARST
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the Pan-African Association of Recycling and Secondhand Textiles (PARST)—a continental platform committed to advancing responsible textile reuse, upcycling, recycling and renewal across Africa.
The Pan African Association of Recycling and Secondhand Textiles (PARST) is a continental, membership-based professional association committed to strengthening Africa’s recycling, textile recovery and secondhand clothing sectors.
PARST promotes responsible textile reuse, upcycling, recycling and renewal as practical pathways for reducing waste, protecting the environment, creating employment and supporting inclusive economic development. The Association works to build professional capacity, encourage knowledge sharing, promote industry best practices and support evidence-based policies for a sustainable and circular textile economy across Africa.
Reuse • Upcycle • Recycle • Renew
Who We Are
PARST brings together individuals, businesses, industry associations, recyclers, secondhand textile traders, manufacturers, researchers, policymakers, development partners, civil society organisations and environmental professionals with a shared commitment to sustainable textile management.
We provide a continental platform through which stakeholders can exchange knowledge, develop partnerships, strengthen professional standards and collectively address the environmental, social and economic challenges facing Africa’s textile sector.
PARST recognises that used textiles are not merely waste. When properly collected, sorted, repaired, reused, repurposed and recycled, they become valuable resources capable of supporting livelihoods, conserving natural resources and contributing to Africa’s transition towards a circular economy.
Our Vision
To become Africa’s leading professional association for advancing responsible recycling, sustainable secondhand textile trade and a thriving circular textile economy.
Our Mission
To promote environmentally responsible textile practices, strengthen professional and institutional capacity, support innovation, advocate for enabling policies and create sustainable economic opportunities throughout Africa’s recycling and secondhand textile value chain.
Our Purpose
PARST exists to transform the way textiles are produced, consumed, reused and managed across Africa. We seek to reduce textile waste while ensuring that recycling and secondhand textile activities contribute positively to communities, businesses and the environment.
Through collaboration, advocacy, research, education and professional development, PARST works to create an industry that is:
- Environmentally responsible
- Economically viable
- Socially inclusive
- Professionally regulated
- Innovative and resilient
- Supportive of decent work and entrepreneurship