Bold Fashion week puts the business of African fashion in focus

What the report says

Bold Fashion Week made its debut at Motiv Kampala, turning the venue into a two-night gathering that combined runway presentations, music and networking around the wider fashion economy. According to Sqoop Uganda, the event was held on Friday and Saturday in partnership with I&M Bank and Johnnie Walker, and drew designers, creatives, fashion enthusiasts and socialites.

The showcase featured a mix of Ugandan and continental talent, including Axarya, Discreet Street x Local, Good Fibre, Joan Jade, Kifahari, Kwesh, Lamara, Ofumbi and Shurea Yasmin from Uganda, alongside Nigeria’s Yemi Shoyemi. The article said the line-up was intended to underline Kampala’s role as a meeting point for African fashion and creativity, while also highlighting craftsmanship and contemporary interpretations of African identity.

Beyond the catwalk, the story stressed the commercial side of the industry. Designer Lincoln Axarya said the sector is becoming more profitable and that stronger brands, investment and support could help fashion create jobs and expand markets. The report also noted that on Saturday, August 22, Bold Fashion Week joined Kampala Artisan Market for a retail marketplace, giving designers a chance to sell directly to customers.

The broader takeaway, as described by Sqoop Uganda, is that African fashion is increasingly being viewed not only as culture and style, but also as a business opportunity shaped by young consumers, digital platforms and urban markets.