African Fashion Week has opened in Johannesburg at Nelson Mandela Square, running until May 9, with organisers placing a strong focus on turning African fashion into a global business and trade platform.
The event, which also runs alongside the Global South International Business Forum, brings together designers, industry leaders, and policymakers under the theme of Afro-Futuristic fashion and creative industry growth.
CEO of African Fashion Week, Mpho Mogotsi, says the platform was created to address long-standing gaps in global representation of African creativity.
“African Fashion Week was born out of a deep recognition that African creativity, heritage, and innovation were underrepresented on global platforms, despite the continent being one of the richest sources of cultural inspiration in the world.”
“The initial vision was simple but powerful: to create a world-class platform that celebrates African designers, tells authentic African stories, and positions Africa as a global fashion authority; not just an influence.”
Mogotsi says the initiative has grown beyond a fashion showcase into a broader ecosystem linking creativity with business opportunity.
“It is no longer just a showcase; it is a movement that integrates fashion, business, culture, and global trade.”
“Through its alignment with the Global South International Business Forum and the MphoYaPeoEnterprise Development Programme, it has expanded into a platform that not only celebrates creativity but also builds sustainable businesses, unlocks markets, and drives economic participation across the continent.”
She details that the platform is also focused on shifting African fashion from inspiration to industry.
“It provides access; not just to audiences, but buyers, investors, policymakers, and international collaborators. It creates a pipeline from creativity to commerce. In the current economic climate, where job creation and entrepreneurship are vital, platforms like this are not just important; they are necessary. They enable designers to move from passion to profitability and from local recognition to global relevance.”
This year’s edition features runway shows, panel discussions, and investment-focused conversations aimed at linking creativity with commercial growth.
Mogotsi says the long-term goal is to expand the platform globally while strengthening Africa’s position in the international fashion economy.
“The vision is to expand into a multi-city and international showcase that connects Africa to key global markets while maintaining its authenticity and cultural integrity.”
“We aim to institutionalise the platform; not just as an event, but as an economic driver that contributes to job creation, skills development, and export growth within the fashion and creative industries.The long-term impact we seek is clear: to see African designers occupying global retail spaces, influencing international fashion narratives, and building legacy brands that compete on a global scale.”
Saturday Star