Establishing basic requirements for textile and garment mass production units in the Tanzanian context
Research Journal of Textile and Apparel
ISSN: 1560-6074
Article publication date: 24 July 2020
Issue publication date: 24 October 2020
Abstract
Purpose
Garment making by the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) has existed for a long enough time to make the sewing culture a mainstream phenomenon today. It is thus essential to evaluate existing producers, the required information and the key requirements for production. This should consequently forge the way forward. Hence, the purpose of this study was to establish guidelines for the basic requirements as a means of operating garment mass production units in consideration of the unique economic, legal and social environment in Tanzania.
Design/methodology/approach
The study deployed a qualitative approach: interview sessions, questionnaires and observation together with the document review approach. A qualitative approach captured in-depth views, ideas and concepts from participants.
Findings
The study established the requirements for scaling up SMEs into mass production. The requirements include significant investment, well-planned strategies and an implementable industrialisation plan. The country also requires empowered workforces through the existing institutions, international collaborations with foreign investors, implementable policies, among others to excel in this sector.
Research limitations/implications
The identified information together with all factors is leading towards initiating textile-based industries. Thus, information resources concerning garment production in the Tanzanian context are suitable for both individuals and corporations intending to scale up their production.
Originality/value
This is probably among the first studies in Tanzania which explored the basic requirements for setting mass-production units for textile and apparel industries. The uniqueness relies on the involved participants from multi-perspective domains.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors are very much appreciative for the kind assistance and back up given to us from numerous potential investors and entrepreneurs, semi-professional mass garment producers including Naledi Enterprises in Kinondoni and 365 Garments, tailoring mart owners and workers, allied organisations including the Textile Development Unit (TDU), academic staff and students, research assistants and others at the University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Citation
Taifa, I.W.R. and Lushaju, G.G. (2020), "Establishing basic requirements for textile and garment mass production units in the Tanzanian context", Research Journal of Textile and Apparel, Vol. 24 No. 4, pp. 321-340. https://doi.org/10.1108/RJTA-11-2019-0054
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited