African Union hosts Africa Fashion reception

The much anticipated Africa Fashion Reception was hosted by the African Union 13^th – 15^th September, 2016 at the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa. It featured designers from around the African continent.

Activities opened with exhibition by participating countries. The Chairperson of the African Union, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma visited the exhibition stands with great admiration for the exhibited fashion products locally produced from around the African continent.

The Africa Fashion Business Summit took place the 2^nd day 14^th September at the small conference hall. It was conducted by Lexy Mojo Eyes, CEO of Legendary Gold Limited, organizers of the Africa Fashion Reception. The welcome address was delivered by the Commissioner for Social Affairs, His Excellency, Dr Mustapha Sidiki Kaloko. They Keynote Speaker was Cristina Morozzi from Istituto Marangoni, Milan, Italy. She spoke about the increasing influence of African fashion globally. The Managing Director of Femaz Micro Finance Bank, Dr Mrs Sandra Nwugo talked about the role of Micro Finance Bank in supporting the various fashion vocations.

The gala fashion event took place on the last – 16^th September at the multi-purpose hall of the African Union. It started with a welcoming cocktail. In attendance were about 600 select VIPs made up of Ambassadors from over 112 countries, international organizations, Corporate CEOs and top government functionaries.

Some of the designers that participated included Botocy – Botswana, Kaz O Zah Art – Burundi, Paradise Fashion – Ethiopia, Fanny Mandina – DR Congo, Tekay Designs – Liberia, Classic Fashion – Namibia, Walove by Designs – Kenya, Kokonut stylist – Swaziland, Black Coal Clothing – South Africa, Keto Couture – Nigeria, Chizo – Zambia, Bulongo Clothing, Ladybird Fashion design, Ejig Tibeb, Yefiker etc.

Partners include Africa Magic, Amina Magazine, Motherland Beckons, Design Essentials, African Kingdom Federation, Ovation International, Atunda Entertainment, Femaz Micro Finance Bank, Planet Tv, African Independent Television, Ben Tv, Busymind Entertainment, Ubuntu Events, Ethiopian Airlines, Bedele Special, Soreti, Castel, and Debredamo hotel.

The Africa Fashion Reception will have its 3^rd international edition in Paris France on Saturday 29^th October, 2016 at the UNESCO. The AFR will be hosted by UNESCO due to a new partnership between UNESCO and The Africa Fashion Reception. This was facilitated by the Nigerian Permanent Delegation to UNESCO.