Rédaction Africa Links 24 with News Desk
Published on 2024-04-04 01:48:13
The Fashion Industry in Africa is known for its vibrancy, innovation, and creativity, drawing inspiration from the continent’s rich cultural heritage and contemporary arts and culture. According to UNESCO, Africa has the potential to become one of the next world fashion leaders. However, despite an abundance of talent and creativity, African fashion designers often face challenges in translating their skills and designs into successful businesses.
To address these challenges and advance gender parity in the creative and cultural industries, the British Council has launched the Creative DNA programme. This initiative aims to accelerate fashion businesses by providing designers in Africa with the necessary business skills, knowledge, and networks. The programme, which has been successful in Kenya, has now expanded to Ethiopia, Senegal, and Uganda, with plans to launch in more sub-Saharan African countries in 2024.
Market access is crucial for the growth of Africa’s cultural and creative economies, and initiatives like the Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) have played a key role in providing designers with opportunities to expand their networks and showcase their work on a global stage. By connecting designers with buyers and creators from around the world, these initiatives help artists build sustainable livelihoods from their talents.
The Hub of Africa Fashion Week (HAFW) is another platform that has highlighted the diverse talent of African designers, in collaboration with the British Council’s Creative DNA programme. Through international partnerships and showcases, the African fashion industry has been able to gain visibility and support, empowering designers to excel in a competitive and creative environment.
One example of the impact of the British Council’s programmes is Betselot Zewge, the founder and creative director of Zemenay, Ethiopia’s first plus-size clothing line. Zewge credits the British Council’s fashion incubation programme with equipping her with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in the fashion industry. Through collaborations and initiatives like CANEX, Zewge has been able to showcase her work on prestigious platforms and contribute to the economic development of Ethiopia.
In addition to supporting fashion designers, the British Council is also involved in the ACP-EU Ignite Culture Programme, which aims to promote entrepreneurship and cultural innovation in East Africa. By providing financial support, training, and mentoring to cultural entrepreneurs, the programme has helped create new jobs, reach audiences, and equip young people with skills in countries like Burundi, Kenya, and Uganda.
Another initiative supported by the British Council is the HustleSasa app in Kenya, which enables young creatives to monetize their passions and thrive in the creative industry. By offering training, mentoring, networking opportunities, and market access, the app helps address challenges such as confidence and lack of role models, empowering young creatives to turn their passions into livelihoods.
Overall, the British Council’s initiatives in Sub-Saharan Africa are making a significant impact on the cultural and creative industries, particularly in supporting young women. By championing gender equality, economic empowerment, and inclusivity, these programmes contribute to the socio-economic development of the region and pave the way for a more sustainable, diverse, and inclusive creative economy. It is essential to continue investing in these transformative initiatives to celebrate achievements, inspire others, and build economic value through creativity and innovation.
