Ugandan innovation in natural fibres
Skilpack Ltd creates materials, textiles and beauty products from banana and pineapple fibre, and builds skills and jobs across the value chain.
Our story
Skilpack Ltd is a registered private Ugandan company that develops eco-friendly materials and products from banana stems and other natural fibres. Our purpose is to create jobs and opportunities for young people, women and vulnerable communities through research and biomass innovation.
The company was founded by a Ugandan researcher with a Master’s degree in Textile Science and Engineering from Tiangong University in Tianjin, China. His research on banana fibre has been published in international scientific journals, and every Skilpack product is developed from that scientific base.
Through partnerships with research institutions, textile manufacturers and universities in Uganda and abroad, we have built a portfolio that runs from raw fibre to finished products: Banafine hair extensions, cottonised fibre, yarn, knitted fabric, carpets and rugs.
We believe that 21st-century skills in eco-textile production and environmental protection can add lasting value to the social and economic development of Uganda and Africa.
Our mission
To promote self-reliance and contribute to the development of Uganda through innovation and community sustainability programmes.
Our vision
To be Uganda’s leading hub for innovation, skills and sustainable development through scientifically researched, eco-friendly products.
Our values
Our motto is “Eco-friendly and empowering”. These values guide how we develop products and work with partners.
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Science
Every material and product is developed with scientific methods and assessed for its benefit to the community.
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Technology
Our processes apply current scientific knowledge and methods in textile engineering.
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Research
We study the environmental value of each product before we bring it to market.
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Innovation
We add value to existing products and create new textiles and materials.
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Integrity
We operate transparently with our partners, investors and customers.
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Quality
Our products are made to meet the standards required for human and environmental safety.
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Community
We create skills and jobs in the communities where we work.
A message from our founder
Our products are researched with current technologies in textile science and engineering. We welcome investors, partners and donors who share our drive for environmental protection, fashion, art and design, green textiles, biomass recycling and vocational skills training. We are empowering communities through well-researched, science-led innovation.
Collins holds a Master’s degree in Textile Science and Engineering from Tiangong University and has co-authored peer-reviewed research on banana-fibre degumming and banana-based nanocellulose. He leads Skilpack’s research, product development and partnerships.
Our facilities
Our offices, laboratory and production space are in Bukaya, Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, close to banana-growing communities and the Kampala–Jinja corridor.
Investment priorities
We are scaling the Banana Fibre Innovations Research Centre to meet demand from buyers in Uganda and abroad. We welcome investors and development partners for the following priorities.
- High-capacity fibre processingA modern processing line producing more than 20 kg of banana fibre per day, with operating capital.UGX 700M
- Expanded production campusAn operating site of approximately 8 acres, including development and infrastructure.UGX 1.5B
- Testing and quality controlAdvanced laboratory equipment for fibre testing and product certification.UGX 1B
Visit Skilpack in Njeru
Plot 14, Buvuma Crescent, Bukaya, Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District. We welcome visits from buyers, partners and researchers by appointment.