Re-industrialisation of De-industrialised Textile Sectors in Zimbabwe and Nigeria: Towards Achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG)-9
摘要
The textile sector is vital, as it is responsible for the production of materials used in clothing, furnishing, construction, medical and automobile industries. The sector has an interconnected production chain and has been a key driver of the industrial revolution. There are evidences that the textile sector previously contributed significantly to the economies of Zimbabwe and Nigeria, through increased GDP, employment generation, and foreign direct investment. However, both countries are presently de-industrialised, as they rely heavily on imported fabrics. There is an influx of cheap textiles, high production costs and lack of export initiatives, poor management and limited access to raw materials in both countries. This study adopted a review based methodology and answered questions such as: How can the textile firms in Zimbabwe and Nigeria be re-industrialised? Are there technological frameworks that could sustain the industry? The study examined innovative strategies to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 9 (SDG 9), as embraced in Industry 4.0. A technology framework for the re-industrialisation of the textile sector was proposed. The study identified the use of eco-friendly materials, the adoption of Industry 4.0, digital marketing and increased budgetary allocation to the textile sector as key steps toward re-industrialisation. This will drive other sectors, such as chemical, petrochemical, agricultural and other allied industries. The need for sustainability in material selection, eco-design, packaging and supply chain management, under an enabling policy environment, was also identified. The study recommends that the governments of Zimbabwe and Nigeria should adopt Industry 4.0, digital marketing and green production with environmentally friendly alternatives to revitalise and create a competitive niche in textile manufacturing.