According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the fashion industry in Africa is experiencing a rapid development to meet local and global demand. However, the potential of the industry is impeded by insufficient investment. This disclosure was made in a report published during Lagos Fashion Week. The earnings of the industry is currently valued at $15.5 billion worth of exports every year, and has the potential to triple over the next ten years.
This can only be achieved with the appropriate investment and infrastructure. The disclosure was made by the Director-General of the UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay, who was responsible for the launch of the first report of UNESCO on African garments in the economic hub of Nigeria, Lagos State. Africa has a young population of about 1.3 billion people, which will multiply by 2050. As such, the fashion industry of the continent has proven to be a significant tool to promote cultural diversity.
More market opportunities have been unlocked for Africa.
Azoulay said that the industry is also empowering women and young people across Africa. Fashion has continued to develop in various aspects — movies and films inclusive — across the African continent. It keeps growing in the form of garments, textiles, fine crafts and accessories, with an admirably long history of prestige that represents the African culture. The UNESCO report noted that there is a continuous local and international demand for African brands, which is fostered by the growth in e-commerce.
It was further stated that the African continent is at the forefront of mobile device web traffic across the globe. This statement was affirmed by the United States (US) International Trade Administration. This achievement by the continent has unlocked more market opportunities for African countries. Through these market opportunities, young Nigerian citizens across the country are regularly opening brands. This is because Africans want to wear Africa made — dresses that represent the culture of the continent.
A new generation of young designers is emerging in the global scene.
Omoyemi Akerele, who established the Lagos Fashion Week in 2011, over one decade ago, to boost the patronage of Nigerian and African fashion, stated that Africans like to rep Africa in their dressing, and it is beautiful to witness because previously it was not like this. He stressed that all people want to wear now is African fashion. The annual Lagos Fashion Week always feature different designers from all over the continent as it celebrates local brands.
Also, the annual fashion show ensures provision of a market for local brands, displaying African crafts and culture in several styles and colours. The UNESCO director-general said that in many parts of Africa, including Nigeria, young designers are pursuing after success and are taking charge of the international stage. She said that a new generation of young designers is emerging in the global scene. This new breed of designers are keen on the reinvention of the code of luxury.
Exposure has made more people experience the Nigerian culture.
Additionally, this new generation of designers are ensuring reconciliation with the demands of local, sustainable fashion and heritage. One of such new breed designers, Ejiro Amos-Tafiri, stated, at the Lagos Fashion Week, that through her brand, she tells African stories and celebrates the class, sophistication and distinctiveness of all women. More exposure has made more people realize that the Nigerian culture has a lot embedded in it, especially in the industry. As a result, Africa is at the forefront of the industry.
Related Link
Lagos Fashion Week: Website
Africa at the forefront of fashion industry. – The potential of the industry is impeded by insufficient investment. – Express your point of view.
Africa’s fashion sector is flourishing. It is imperative that other African nations support their fashion industries. We will be better able to work together to ensure that Africa becomes a desirable location for the fashion industry.Africa is leading the fashion sector.
Africa is making waves in the fashion industry, showcasing its incredible talent and creativity. However, the industry’s growth potential is being hindered by insufficient investment.
Investment plays a crucial role in propelling the fashion industry forward. It provides the necessary resources and support for designers, artisans, and entrepreneurs to flourish. With increased investment, we can create a robust ecosystem that nurtures talent, fosters innovation, and drives economic growth.
By investing in infrastructure, such as production facilities and fashion schools, we can provide the necessary foundation for the industry to thrive. Additionally, financial backing can help designers access the materials, equipment, and technology needed to create high-quality and sustainable fashion.
It’s essential for governments, private investors, and stakeholders to recognize the immense potential of the African fashion industry and allocate resources accordingly. By doing so, we can empower African designers to compete on a global scale, celebrate our cultural heritage, and reshape the narrative around African fashion.
Let’s continue to advocate for increased investment in the African fashion industry and support the incredible talent that is driving its growth. Together, we can unlock its full potential and establish Africa as a fashion powerhouse. 🌍👗✨
The fashion industry is leading in Africa. An inadequate investment base limits the industry’s potential. In the fashion industry, Africa is making waves with its exceptional creativity and inventiveness. Investment is required in order to keep the fashion industry growing. It provides vital resources and help to the fashion sector in Africa.