The Sixth African Union (AU) Mid-Year Summit held in Accra, Ghana, from July 18-21, 2024, was not only a platform for political discussions and policymaking but also an opportunity for African fashion to take the centre stage.
The summit brought together leaders from across Africa including ministers, commissioners, senior government officials, researchers, policymakers and media practitioners to discuss key issues facing the continent and to forge partnerships for sustainable development towards achieving the AU’s 2063 Agenda.
This year, the fashion choices of attendees stood out, showcasing the diverse and vibrant cultures of Africa.
The Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) foyer was adorned with a stunning array of traditional African wear, including Kaftan, Kente, Agbada, tie and dye, smock, and groomsmen suits of various styles.
African Fashion: A Reflection of Culture
African fashion is known for its bold colours, intricate patterns, and unique designs that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the continent.
From Ankara prints to Kente cloth, African designers have been making a mark on the global fashion scene with their innovative creations.
The Summit provided a platform for these designers to showcase their work and highlight the beauty of African fashion and creativity.
Promoting African fashion at international events like the AU Summit not only highlights the talent and creativity of African designers but also promotes economic growth and cultural exchange.
By showcasing African fashion on a global stage, designers can attract international buyers and investors, thus creating new opportunities for growth, expansion and job creation.
Additionally, it helps to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about the continent, showcasing its vibrant and diverse cultures to the world.
African Designers Making an Impact
At the four-day summit, many African designers made a lasting impression on participants with their outstanding creations.
One such designer was Ozwald Boateng, a Ghanaian-British designer known for his modern take on traditional African styles.
Boateng showcased a collection of tailored suits in bold African prints that caught the attention of attendees and media alike.
Another standout designer was Lisa Folawiyo, a Nigerian known for her use of traditional West African fabrics in contemporary silhouettes.
Folawiyo’s vibrant designs were a hit at the summit, showcasing the beauty and versatility of African fashion.
Practical Tips for Incorporating African Fashion into one’s Wardrobe
If one is inspired by the African fashion showcased at the Summit and want to incorporate it into his or her wardrobe, here are some practical tips to help:
Start small; Incorporate African prints and fabrics into accessories, such as scarves, bags, or shoes.
Mix and match; Experiment with mixing African prints with existing wardrobe staples for a unique and eclectic look.
Support African designers; Look for African fashion brands and designers who align with one’s style preferences and values and support them by purchasing their creations.
As a fashion enthusiast, attending the Summit was a truly inspiring experience.
The vibrant colours, bold patterns, and innovative designs showcased by African designers left a lasting impression on delegates and observers.
The delegates were particularly drawn to the way African fashion celebrates culture and heritage, telling stories through fabric and design.
The summit reminded participants of the power of fashion to transcend borders and bring people together, showcasing the beauty and diversity of the African Continent.
The event was not just a gathering of political leaders but a celebration of African fashion and culture.
Exhibiting African fashion on an international stage enables designers not only to showcase their talent but also shape perceptions of the continent and drive economic growth.
Delegates attending the Mid-Year Meeting had the chance to showcase their sense of style by wearing beautiful and colorful African traditional attire.
Africans are widely recognised for their fashion sense, and during the summit, vendors and entrepreneurs showcased an impressive selection of African wear.
Various styles and designs of traditional beads, necklaces, bracelets, and matching accessories like sandals, hats, and shoes were available to complement the traditional clothing preferences of attendees.
This writer observed delegates carefully selecting their preferred African wear, with vendors recording good sales and showing signs of satisfaction.
Madam Bernice Asantewaa, who specialises in Agbada and Kaftan, said sales grew steadily over the four days.
An intricately designed Agbada dress was listed at GHc1,700, while a Kaftan was priced at GHc700.
Madam Kafui Asare, who sells dresses made from Ghanaian textile prints, said she made good sales during the event.
Although sales were satisfactory, some vendors were of the conviction that allowing them to display their merchandise outside the AICC building would have increased patronage, as most delegates spent more time outside during the summit.
Some vendors revealed that they made between GHc7,000 and GHc10,000 in sales per day.
The AU Mid-Year Planning Committee and the Ghana Tourism Authority’s initiative to provide pavilions for vendors to showcase Ghana’s unique clothing brands at the AICC foyer was described as a positive move by the vendors and delegates.
Conclusion
The Sixth AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Accra was on the theme: “Educate an African Fit for the 21st Century: Building Resilient Education Systems for Increased Access to Inclusive, Lifelong, Quality and Relevant Learning in Africa.”
The summit aimed to enhance continental economic integration in line with the AU 2063 Agenda.
As the world continues to celebrate and support African fashion, the continent can embrace diversity, promote creativity, and forge connections across borders.
Let’s continue to shine a spotlight on African fashion, celebrate the beauty of her rich culture, and take advantage of the positive influence these can have on the economic development and wellbeing of the continent.
