At the close of August, Moscow hosted the BRICS+ Fashion Summit, drawing participants from more than 65 countries. Africa stood out as a key force, with its growing textile and apparel exports now representing 2–3% of the global market. South Africa, Ethiopia, and Kenya are spearheading this growth by delivering high-quality, sustainable products, attracting investment, and creating jobs.
Delegates from 15 African nations, from Tunisia to South Africa, joined the event to showcase achievements and exchange insights with global peers. Discussions at the Summit addressed balancing local brands with global giants, advancing green manufacturing, and promoting cultural heritage in design.
Nana Tamakloe, CEO of Accra Fashion Week, highlighted how creativity and heritage empower small African brands. African designers’ collections impressed with cultural depth, bold colors, and innovative materials, with contributions from leaders like Mahlet Teklemariam (Hub of Africa Fashion Week), Susan Sabet (Egyptian Fashion and Design Council), Mahlet Afework (Mafi Mafi), Mmantlha Sankoloba (Botswana Exporters and Manufacturers Association), and Anis Montacer (Tunis Fashion Week).
A session spotlighted South Africa’s evolving fashion industry, with representatives from Soweto Fashion Week, University of Johannesburg, Cape Town College of Fashion Design, and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture. Celebrated designer David Tlale, who has shown at New York and Paris Fashion Weeks, presented his collection at Moscow Fashion Week and emphasized collaboration and unity under the mantra “Proudly Made in South Africa.”
Susan Sabet further noted that BRICS+ exemplifies how global fashion events drive cultural exchange and strengthen brand identity rooted in craftsmanship and heritage.
