Joy Akatukunda Fashion is one of the most coveted professions in the world today. With thousands of designers, millions of collectors and players, it is among the top business ventures of the 21st Century. In the past few years, Africa has managed to squeeze its way onto the International fashion scene with hundreds of designers creating breathtaking pieces.
The 6th edition of the Uganda International Fashion Week (UIFW) took place from the 2nd -4th of August 2019 at the Kampala Serena Hotel. The show was one of a kind. It’s main focus this time round was emphasizing The Business Behind Fashion, to magnify the potential of fashion as a vehicle for swift economic development in Africa. It was hosted by Arapapa by Santa Azo, in association with the Department of Arts and Culture, and the Republic of South Africa.
The UIFW was a whole package of events. From the runway, to seminars, discussion panels, knowledge sharing and master class sessions, and mentorship, the show attested to how greatly Ugandan and African fashion has risen to greater heights. Showcasing designers included: Fatumah Asha, Stella Atal, Abbas Kai, Paula Butagira and Arapapa by Santa Azo.
Officials from the Uganda Tourism Board(UTB) were also in attendance since fashion is a major contributor to the tourism sector. “Tourism is no longer about people coming to see wild animals. They want to experience the culture, the cuisine and the fashion. We are glad that UIFW is taking a lead in fashion tourism,” UTB’s Marketing manger Claire Mugabi said.
