Can Your Fashion Styles Increase Your Confidence in 2025?

A journey of self-discovery through fashion often begins with a single moment of transformation. For this writer, that moment came in 2018 on the bustling streets of Kigali, Rwanda, where a simple wardrobe choice would challenge years of cultural conditioning and spark a personal style revolution.

Kigali's streets pulse with the energy of countless motorcycles, offering an affordable and efficient means of navigation through the city's traffic. Unlike the boda bodas of neighboring Kampala, Uganda, these Rwandan motos are renowned for their cleanliness, safety, and strict one-passenger policy. This seemingly minor detail would become the catalyst for a significant personal transformation

Motobike in Kigali City, Rwanda [Photo Credit: Safari]

In Kampala, motorcycle passengers can choose between two sitting styles: 'kisajja' (straddling the bike like men do) or 'kikyala' (sitting sideways, traditionally preferred by women). Dressed in what the writer describes as a "skimpy" dress, the cultural clash became apparent. The impossible choice between maintaining modesty and practical transportation led to a cancelled trip and disapproving glances from friends. The solution? Trousers – a simple garment that had been forbidden by both cultural and religious constraints.

Motobike in Kampala City, Uganda [Photo Credit: Safari]

Growing up in the conservative Baganda tribe as a Protestant, the writer's wardrobe choices were heavily influenced by traditional values. Childhood comments about being too tall, too small, and "nyashless" (having a flat bottom) had shaped her self-image, leading her to seek refuge in flowing skirts and dresses that concealed these perceived imperfections. The practical necessity of Kigali's motorcycle transport finally challenged these deeply ingrained habits.

Through supportive friends and gradual experimentation, a new confidence emerged. Here are the key lessons learned, enhanced by expert insights, for anyone seeking to build confidence through fashion in 2025:

Embrace Authenticity

Start with what feels comfortable and gradually expand your horizons. For those struggling with body image issues, begin with forgiving silhouettes before exploring more fitted styles. The key is finding what makes you feel genuinely yourself.

Fashionable Rwandaise influencer  Isimbi Model 

Master the Art of Fit

Understanding the difference between tight and ill-fitting clothing is crucial. Properly fitted garments, regardless of style, can enhance confidence while maintaining comfort. The goal is finding that sweet spot where comfort meets sophistication.

Designer Olivier Niyitanga (Tanga Design) emphasizes the importance of cultural expression through fashion. "Choose pieces that feel like an extension of who you are," he advises, recommending investment in versatile staples like sharp blazers, well-fitted jeans, and classic shoes as foundational pieces.

Kigali-based fashion designer  Olivier Niyitanga

The Power of Accessories

Think of accessories as confidence-boosting tools. Whether it's an elegant watch, architectural earrings, or a silk scarf, these elements can transform basic outfits into powerful statements of personal style. The key is selecting one or two standout pieces that enhance rather than overwhelm. 

Fashionable the Kigali-based artist, singer and songwriter- Bruce Melogy

Color Psychology

Tanga suggests using color strategically to influence mood and project confidence. "Red for power, blue for calm, yellow for energy – choose colors that align with how you want to feel," he advises.

Kigali-based fashion designer  Olivier Niyitanga

Building a Sustainable Wardrobe

Focus on quality over quantity, investing in pieces that resonate deeply rather than following fleeting trends. Apply the "One-Year Rule" when decluttering: if an item hasn't been worn in a year, consider letting it go. Create three piles during wardrobe clean-outs: keep, donate/sell, and undecided, revisiting the latter after a month for final decisions.

Release Emotional Attachments

Keep only truly meaningful pieces and avoid holding onto clothes out of obligation. If a gifted item hasn't been worn in five years, it's time to let go – perhaps even informing the gift-giver so they can choose something more aligned with your current style. 

Fashionable former Miss Rwanda- Mutesi Jolly 

The journey from cultural constraints to confident self-expression through fashion is ongoing. As we move into 2025, the key to building confidence through style lies not in following trends but in authentic self-expression, thoughtful curation, and the courage to evolve beyond our comfort zones. After all, true style confidence comes from wearing what makes you feel empowered, regardless of external expectations.

 Fashion Trends Africa by RCFS

Original Story by Jane Babirye

Can Your Fashion Styles Increase Your Confidence in 2025?

A journey of self-discovery through fashion often begins with a single moment of transformation. For this writer, that moment came in 2018 on the bustling streets of Kigali, Rwanda, where a simple wardrobe choice would challenge years of cultural conditioning and spark a personal style revolution.

Kigali's streets pulse with the energy of countless motorcycles, offering an affordable and efficient means of navigation through the city's traffic. Unlike the boda bodas of neighboring Kampala, Uganda, these Rwandan motos are renowned for their cleanliness, safety, and strict one-passenger policy. This seemingly minor detail would become the catalyst for a significant personal transformation.

Motobike in Kigali City, Rwanda [Photo Credit: Safari]

In Kampala, motorcycle passengers can choose between two sitting styles: 'kisajja' (straddling the bike like men do) or 'kikyala' (sitting sideways, traditionally preferred by women). Dressed in what the writer describes as a "skimpy" dress, the cultural clash became apparent. The impossible choice between maintaining modesty and practical transportation led to a cancelled trip and disapproving glances from friends. The solution? Trousers – a simple garment that had been forbidden by both cultural and religious constraints.

Motobike in Kampala City, Uganda [Photo Credit: Safari]

Growing up in the conservative Baganda tribe as a Protestant, the writer's wardrobe choices were heavily influenced by traditional values. Childhood comments about being too tall, too small, and "nyashless" (having a flat bottom) had shaped her self-image, leading her to seek refuge in flowing skirts and dresses that concealed these perceived imperfections. The practical necessity of Kigali's motorcycle transport finally challenged these deeply ingrained habits.

Through supportive friends and gradual experimentation, a new confidence emerged. Here are the key lessons learned, enhanced by expert insights, for anyone seeking to build confidence through fashion in 2025:

Embrace Authenticity

Start with what feels comfortable and gradually expand your horizons. For those struggling with body image issues, begin with forgiving silhouettes before exploring more fitted styles. The key is finding what makes you feel genuinely yourself.

Fashionable Rwandaise influencer  Isimbi Model 

Master the Art of Fit

Understanding the difference between tight and ill-fitting clothing is crucial. Properly fitted garments, regardless of style, can enhance confidence while maintaining comfort. The goal is finding that sweet spot where comfort meets sophistication.

Designer Olivier Niyitanga (Tanga Design) emphasizes the importance of cultural expression through fashion. "Choose pieces that feel like an extension of who you are," he advises, recommending investment in versatile staples like sharp blazers, well-fitted jeans, and classic shoes as foundational pieces.

Kigali-based fashion designer  Olivier Niyitanga

The Power of Accessories

Think of accessories as confidence-boosting tools. Whether it's an elegant watch, architectural earrings, or a silk scarf, these elements can transform basic outfits into powerful statements of personal style. The key is selecting one or two standout pieces that enhance rather than overwhelm. 

Fashionable the Kigali-based artist, singer and songwriter- Bruce Melogy

Color Psychology

Tanga suggests using color strategically to influence mood and project confidence. "Red for power, blue for calm, yellow for energy – choose colors that align with how you want to feel," he advises.

Kigali-based fashion designer  Olivier Niyitanga

Building a Sustainable Wardrobe

Focus on quality over quantity, investing in pieces that resonate deeply rather than following fleeting trends. Apply the "One-Year Rule" when decluttering: if an item hasn't been worn in a year, consider letting it go. Create three piles during wardrobe clean-outs: keep, donate/sell, and undecided, revisiting the latter after a month for final decisions.

Release Emotional Attachments

Keep only truly meaningful pieces and avoid holding onto clothes out of obligation. If a gifted item hasn't been worn in five years, it's time to let go – perhaps even informing the gift-giver so they can choose something more aligned with your current style. 

Fashionable former Miss Rwanda- Mutesi Jolly 

The journey from cultural constraints to confident self-expression through fashion is ongoing. As we move into 2025, the key to building confidence through style lies not in following trends but in authentic self-expression, thoughtful curation, and the courage to evolve beyond our comfort zones. After all, true style confidence comes from wearing what makes you feel empowered, regardless of external expectations.

 Fashion Trends Africa by RCFS 

Original Story by Jane Babirye

The Spring/Summer Safari Collection 2025: Rwanda Clothing's Premium Fabric Innovation

Rwanda Clothing has unveiled its highly anticipated Spring/Summer Safari Collection 2025, marking a triumphant return to the fashion scene with must-have pieces that blend sophistication with adventure-ready design. The collection, released yesterday, showcases the brand's commitment to excellence through its thoughtful color palette and superior craftsmanship.

Spring/Summer Safari Collection 2025 [Photo Credit: Rwanda Clothing]

Distinguished by its refined safari-inspired hues and exceptional finishing touches, the 2025 collection strikes a perfect balance between understated elegance and practical versatility. Rather than incorporating bold, flashy colors, the design team has chosen sophisticated earth tones that complement the collection's travel-oriented essence. According to Rwanda Clothing, these pieces are specifically crafted for the discerning traveler, seamlessly transitioning from beachside afternoons to romantic evening dinners.

Spring/Summer Safari Collection 2025 [Photo Credit: Rwanda Clothing]

"Plan your travels ahead of time, as we've created these simple, flowing pieces in high-quality cotton fabric with versatile cuts to accompany you on every adventure," announced Rwanda Clothing's representative. The collection's emphasis on premium fabrics underscores the brand's dedication to quality and comfort.

Spring/Summer Safari Collection 2025 [Photo Credit: Rwanda Clothing]

The success story behind Rwanda Clothing begins with founder Joselyne Umutoniwase, who established the company in 2012 with a vision to deliver expertly tailored and customized clothing made in Rwanda by local artisans. What started as a modest operation with two tailors has blossomed into a significant employer, now supporting forty-five full-time staff members and over 50 part-time workers, primarily women who also contribute to the company's home décor line.

Spring/Summer Safari Collection 2025 [Photo Credit: Rwanda Clothing]

Today, Rwanda Clothing Ltd operates two showrooms in Kigali alongside its production facility, demonstrating remarkable growth and establishing a solid presence in the fashion industry. The brand has transcended its local origins to gain recognition across Africa and beyond, truly emerging as a global fashion contender.

Joselyne's unwavering passion for clothing has become a catalyst for change, introducing many to the creative industry while highlighting its potential for economic growth and social transformation. Her ongoing commitment to creating, inspiring the next generation, and training aspiring designers continues to advance the "Made in Rwanda" initiative on the global stage.

Spring/Summer Safari Collection 2025 [Photo Credit: Rwanda Clothing]

Spring/Summer Safari Collection 2025 [Photo Credit: Rwanda Clothing]

Fashion Trends Africa by RCFS 

The Spring/Summer Safari Collection 2025: Rwanda Clothing's Premium Fabric Innovation

Rwanda Clothing has unveiled its highly anticipated Spring/Summer Safari Collection 2025, marking a triumphant return to the fashion scene with must-have pieces that blend sophistication with adventure-ready design. The collection, released yesterday, showcases the brand's commitment to excellence through its thoughtful color palette and superior craftsmanship.

Spring/Summer Safari Collection 2025 [Photo Credit: Rwanda Clothing]

Distinguished by its refined safari-inspired hues and exceptional finishing touches, the 2025 collection strikes a perfect balance between understated elegance and practical versatility. Rather than incorporating bold, flashy colors, the design team has chosen sophisticated earth tones that complement the collection's travel-oriented essence. According to Rwanda Clothing, these pieces are specifically crafted for the discerning traveler, seamlessly transitioning from beachside afternoons to romantic evening dinners.

Spring/Summer Safari Collection 2025 [Photo Credit: Rwanda Clothing]

"Plan your travels ahead of time, as we've created these simple, flowing pieces in high-quality cotton fabric with versatile cuts to accompany you on every adventure," announced Rwanda Clothing's representative. The collection's emphasis on premium fabrics underscores the brand's dedication to quality and comfort.

Spring/Summer Safari Collection 2025 [Photo Credit: Rwanda Clothing]

The success story behind Rwanda Clothing begins with founder Joselyne Umutoniwase, who established the company in 2012 with a vision to deliver expertly tailored and customized clothing made in Rwanda by local artisans. What started as a modest operation with two tailors has blossomed into a significant employer, now supporting forty-five full-time staff members and over 50 part-time workers, primarily women who also contribute to the company's home décor line.

Spring/Summer Safari Collection 2025 [Photo Credit: Rwanda Clothing]

Today, Rwanda Clothing Ltd operates two showrooms in Kigali alongside its production facility, demonstrating remarkable growth and establishing a solid presence in the fashion industry. The brand has transcended its local origins to gain recognition across Africa and beyond, truly emerging as a global fashion contender.

Joselyne's unwavering passion for clothing has become a catalyst for change, introducing many to the creative industry while highlighting its potential for economic growth and social transformation. Her ongoing commitment to creating, inspiring the next generation, and training aspiring designers continues to advance the "Made in Rwanda" initiative on the global stage.

Spring/Summer Safari Collection 2025 [Photo Credit: Rwanda Clothing]

Spring/Summer Safari Collection 2025 [Photo Credit: Rwanda Clothing]

Fashion Trends Africa by RCFS 

Ugandan Fashion Designer Expresses Joy After Showcasing BOLD Collection in Spain

Celebrated Ugandan fashion designer Wyne Kirabo recently shared her gratitude following a successful showcase of her latest collection in Spain. In a heartfelt LinkedIn post, Kirabo reflected on her philosophy of success and unveiled glimpses of her new BOLD collection.

Responding to a Spanish magazine interview about the key to business success, Kirabo emphasized a fundamental principle: love. "Some would call it passion, others excellence, dedication, attention to detail, or being meticulous," she explained. "I prefer to encompass it all in one word as simple, as universal, and as powerful as love."

The showcase, held at the Desfilem per La Marato TV3 catwalk in Spain under the Piùbella Models Agency umbrella, featured behind-the-scenes moments captured by photographer Yerafain. The event marked another milestone for the Barcelona-based designer, who has been accumulating accolades across Africa and Europe.

Kirabo's impressive achievements include winning the Asfas Awards' Best Emerging Designer Africa 2022 and being named among "20 Young African Creatives to Know" by The Africa Report in 2023. Her expertise has been recognized in academic circles, leading to speaking engagements at the University of Barcelona's Intercultural Communication and International Business programs in 2024.

Further cementing her influence in the fashion industry, Kirabo serves as a member of the FDP jury at the University of Girona's Qstura program for 2023-2024. She was also nominated for the prestigious Top 40 Under 40 by Uganda's New Vision newspaper in 2024.

The successful presentation of the BOLD collection, combined with the designer's growing international recognition, suggests a promising trajectory for Wyne Kirabo House in 2025. Her team's dedication and shared vision continue to push boundaries in the fashion industry, bridging African creativity with European haute couture.

Wyne Kirabo in collaboration with the amazing DIARRA DIOUF, candidate for Best New Actress at the national Spanish Film awards 

Looking ahead, Kirabo's message resonates with aspiring designers and entrepreneurs: success stems from a deep love for one's craft and the ability to nurture collaborative relationships within a creative team. As her fashion house gains momentum, the BOLD collection stands as a testament to her innovative approach and cross-cultural appeal.

Fashion Trends Africa by RCFS

Can SDGs for Better Fashion Work in Africa?

The fashion industry stands as one of the largest contributors to the global climate and ecological crisis. It is nature-intensive, heavily dependent on fossil fuels, polluting throughout its value chain, and extremely wasteful. Built on a culture of overproduction and overconsumption, the industry relies on an underpaid workforce that faces discrimination, unsafe working conditions, and harassment. Recent studies indicate the industry accounts for 2-8% of global carbon emissions, with authoritative reports settling on 4%. Given its broad impact, the fashion sector intersects with numerous Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Models male African kids in a fashion shop  [ photo CreditiL KFW]

Countries worldwide have been working to help their communities understand both general fashion principles and sustainable fashion practices to protect the planet. The SDGs for Better Fashion initiative, launched in January 2018 and running until December 2030, exemplifies these efforts. Currently, the program operates in the United States, Mexico, Germany, and Brazil.

The situation in Africa presents a stark contrast. While African countries continue to receive large quantities of second-hand clothing, there's little emphasis on fashion education compared to Western nations. "We have been saying this over and over again. While other countries are teaching their children about SDGs for better fashion, some of us haven't even begun to introduce fashion into our high school curriculum," note fashion experts in the region.

Sustainable Collections by Lina Mayorga

ALSO READ: Understanding the East Africa Community Fashion Market in 2025: Who Supplies Fabrics

The environmental and social implications of fashion production and disposal make it crucial to integrate the 17 SDGs into this industry. This integration aims to create a fully sustainable model that benefits both people and ecosystems. According to initiative leaders, the primary goal is to address environmental and social issues related to clothing production and consumption through multiple strategies: implementing sustainable design practices, promoting eco-friendly technologies, improving resource management throughout the textile supply chain, developing new business models, and engaging consumers to adopt better consumption habits.

However, implementing sustainable fashion practices in Africa faces significant challenges. "Sustainable fashion requires collaboration in Africa – it's not something anyone can achieve alone. While we could introduce these concepts in our schools and communities, we consistently face budget constraints and lack specialists to design affordable curriculum," explains a fashion expert.

The SDGs for Better Fashion initiative primarily engages with university-level fashion design students, recognizing them as future market leaders. The program also works with companies through industry events, conferences, and tailored workshops, helping fashion and textile businesses align their sustainability initiatives with SDG objectives.

Sustainable collections by Lina Mayorga

Consumer engagement forms another crucial component of the program. Through public lectures and exhibitions, the initiative works to educate and influence consumer behavior, recognizing that public participation is essential for sustainable practices to succeed. The program operates under a mutual adjustment model, with staff members working interdependently and maintaining regular communication about progress and achievements.

Sustainable collection by Lina Mayorga

Fashion Trends Africa by RFS

The fashion industry stands as one of the largest contributors to the global climate and ecological crisis. It is nature-intensive, heavily dependent on fossil fuels, polluting throughout its value chain, and extremely wasteful. Built on a culture of overproduction and overconsumption, the industry relies on an underpaid workforce that faces discrimination, unsafe working conditions, and harassment. Recent studies indicate the industry accounts for 2-8% of global carbon emissions, with authoritative reports settling on 4%. Given its broad impact, the fashion sector intersects with numerous Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Models male African kids in a fashion shop  [ photo CreditiL KFW]

Countries worldwide have been working to help their communities understand both general fashion principles and sustainable fashion practices to protect the planet. The SDGs for Better Fashion initiative, launched in January 2018 and running until December 2030, exemplifies these efforts. Currently, the program operates in the United States, Mexico, Germany, and Brazil.

The situation in Africa presents a stark contrast. While African countries continue to receive large quantities of second-hand clothing, there's little emphasis on fashion education compared to Western nations. "We have been saying this over and over again. While other countries are teaching their children about SDGs for better fashion, some of us haven't even begun to introduce fashion into our high school curriculum," note fashion experts in the region.

Sustainable Collections by Lina Mayorga

ALSO READ: Understanding the East Africa Community Fashion Market in 2025: Who Supplies Fabrics

The environmental and social implications of fashion production and disposal make it crucial to integrate the 17 SDGs into this industry. This integration aims to create a fully sustainable model that benefits both people and ecosystems. According to initiative leaders, the primary goal is to address environmental and social issues related to clothing production and consumption through multiple strategies: implementing sustainable design practices, promoting eco-friendly technologies, improving resource management throughout the textile supply chain, developing new business models, and engaging consumers to adopt better consumption habits.

However, implementing sustainable fashion practices in Africa faces significant challenges. "Sustainable fashion requires collaboration in Africa – it's not something anyone can achieve alone. While we could introduce these concepts in our schools and communities, we consistently face budget constraints and lack specialists to design affordable curriculum," explains a fashion expert.

The SDGs for Better Fashion initiative primarily engages with university-level fashion design students, recognizing them as future market leaders. The program also works with companies through industry events, conferences, and tailored workshops, helping fashion and textile businesses align their sustainability initiatives with SDG objectives.

Sustainable collections by Lina Mayorga

Consumer engagement forms another crucial component of the program. Through public lectures and exhibitions, the initiative works to educate and influence consumer behavior, recognizing that public participation is essential for sustainable practices to succeed. The program operates under a mutual adjustment model, with staff members working interdependently and maintaining regular communication about progress and achievements.

Sustainable collection by Lina Mayorga

Fashion Trends Africa by RFS

Can SDGs for Better Fashion Work in Africa?

The fashion industry stands as one of the largest contributors to the global climate and ecological crisis. It is nature-intensive, heavily dependent on fossil fuels, polluting throughout its value chain, and extremely wasteful. Built on a culture of overproduction and overconsumption, the industry relies on an underpaid workforce that faces discrimination, unsafe working conditions, and harassment. Recent studies indicate the industry accounts for 2-8% of global carbon emissions, with authoritative reports settling on 4%. Given its broad impact, the fashion sector intersects with numerous Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Models male African kids in a fashion shop  [ photo CreditiL KFW]

Countries worldwide have been working to help their communities understand both general fashion principles and sustainable fashion practices to protect the planet. The SDGs for Better Fashion initiative, launched in January 2018 and running until December 2030, exemplifies these efforts. Currently, the program operates in the United States, Mexico, Germany, and Brazil.

The situation in Africa presents a stark contrast. While African countries continue to receive large quantities of second-hand clothing, there's little emphasis on fashion education compared to Western nations. "We have been saying this over and over again. While other countries are teaching their children about SDGs for better fashion, some of us haven't even begun to introduce fashion into our high school curriculum," note fashion experts in the region.

Sustainable Collections by Lina Mayorga

ALSO READ: Understanding the East Africa Community Fashion Market in 2025: Who Supplies Fabrics

The environmental and social implications of fashion production and disposal make it crucial to integrate the 17 SDGs into this industry. This integration aims to create a fully sustainable model that benefits both people and ecosystems. According to initiative leaders, the primary goal is to address environmental and social issues related to clothing production and consumption through multiple strategies: implementing sustainable design practices, promoting eco-friendly technologies, improving resource management throughout the textile supply chain, developing new business models, and engaging consumers to adopt better consumption habits.

However, implementing sustainable fashion practices in Africa faces significant challenges. "Sustainable fashion requires collaboration in Africa – it's not something anyone can achieve alone. While we could introduce these concepts in our schools and communities, we consistently face budget constraints and lack specialists to design affordable curriculum," explains a fashion expert.

The SDGs for Better Fashion initiative primarily engages with university-level fashion design students, recognizing them as future market leaders. The program also works with companies through industry events, conferences, and tailored workshops, helping fashion and textile businesses align their sustainability initiatives with SDG objectives.

Sustainable collections by Lina Mayorga

Consumer engagement forms another crucial component of the program. Through public lectures and exhibitions, the initiative works to educate and influence consumer behavior, recognizing that public participation is essential for sustainable practices to succeed. The program operates under a mutual adjustment model, with staff members working interdependently and maintaining regular communication about progress and achievements.

Sustainable collection by Lina Mayorga

Fashion Trends Africa by RFS

The Applications for the BFC Fashion Trust Grants 2025 Set to End Next Week

The British Fashion Council (BFC) announced yesterday that applications for the prestigious BFC Fashion Trust Grants 2025 will close on January 15th, 2025, at 5 PM GMT. As part of the BFC Foundation, the Fashion Trust aims to empower positive business growth through financial grants and mentoring support for emerging fashion talents in the United Kingdom.

Eligible applicants must meet several crucial criteria to be considered for the grant. First and foremost, they must operate an established designer fashion business that has been actively trading for a minimum of three years. The initiative welcomes applications from ready-to-wear collections, accessories, millinery, and jewellery designers, though bridalwear and childrenswear collections are excluded.

Companies applying must be UK-based and registered with Companies House, with the Creative Director or Designer maintaining majority ownership of at least 75%. Additionally, applicants should demonstrate a strong market presence through either a minimum of six international and UK stockists or direct-to-consumer sales. For DTC-only brands, a minimum two-year trading history via e-commerce or social media channels with annual sales exceeding £100,000 is required.

The application evaluation process focuses on several critical areas. Creative merit plays a fundamental role, with applicants needing to demonstrate a distinctive aesthetic and unique market positioning. The selection committee will also assess each brand's contribution to the UK fashion ecosystem, including how they have invested their time and resources in giving back to the industry.

Financial planning is another crucial component of the application. Candidates must present a clear vision for fund utilization, articulating how specific projects align with their broader business strategy and demonstrating potential return on investment. Project proposals should not exceed £50,000 and must be completed within a defined timeframe. Importantly, funds cannot be allocated to permanent staff salaries or ongoing expenses beyond the project duration.

Made by connerives who supported by the BFC Fashion Trust

 Sustainability commitment forms a significant evaluation criterion. Applicants must provide comprehensive statements outlining their sustainability initiatives, both current and planned. Key focus areas include decarbonization efforts, biodiversity protection, sustainable manufacturing practices, social sustainability, diversity and inclusion, circular economy principles, end-of-life considerations, and customer education on sustainability.

The BFC emphasizes transparency and fairness in the selection process. Applications will be reviewed and shortlisted by a panel of industry experts and funding representatives, with shortlisted candidates notified in March 2025. These selected applicants will then proceed to panel interviews later that month.

Made by completedworks who supported by the BFC Fashion Trust

To ensure equal opportunity and accurate impact assessment, applicants must provide information about their business, staff, and leadership demographics. The BFC assures that all submitted data will be handled confidentially and securely in accordance with their Data Policy, with any shared insights being presented only in anonymous, aggregated form.

Current first-year or second-year NEWGEN participants are ineligible for this grant, though brands in their third year of NEWGEN may apply. For non-NEWGEN brands, the three-year minimum business operation requirement remains in effect.

This highly competitive grant program represents a significant opportunity for emerging UK fashion businesses to secure both financial support and industry mentorship, contributing to the continued growth and innovation of Britain's fashion industry.

Made by emiliawickstead who supported by the BFC Fashion Trust

The BFC Fashion Trust is a British Fashion Council Foundation charitable initiative that empowers positive business growth through financial grants and mentoring. The fund is open to all ready-to-wear collections and/or accessories. Grant money should relate to a defined project that will be delivered within a set period of time, and applicants must articulate how projects align to their broader business vision and show a clear return on investment.

Since its inception in 2011, the BFC Fashion Trust has awarded almost £3 million to 57 designer businesses to promote growth and fund the implementation of practical solutions. These include long term strategic plans on topics such as merchandising, e-commerce, production, sampling, and more. 

Fashion Trends Africa by RCFS

Understanding the East Africa Community Fashion Market in 2025: Who Supplies Fabrics

The East African Community (EAC) fashion market is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by a burgeoning middle class and increasing urbanization across member states. With a market value exceeding $3 billion annually and projected growth of 7-8% over the next five years, this transformation has created a dynamic ecosystem where fabric suppliers play a crucial role in supporting the region's expanding fashion industry.

The region is rapidly emerging as a global hub in garment and textile manufacturing, distinguished by its unique advantage as a cotton-growing region—a characteristic that sets it apart from established manufacturing nations like Bangladesh, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia. Despite this natural advantage, most East African countries currently export their cotton lint rather than utilizing it for local production.

Made in the EAC fabric by RIVATEX [Photo Credit: NT]

Recent initiatives demonstrate a shift toward strengthening domestic production capabilities. Ethiopia approved the commercialization of Bt cotton (genetically-modified, pest-resistant cotton) in 2018, while Kenya followed suit in 2019. That same year, the EAC approved the final draft of the cotton, textile, and apparel strategy (CTA), aimed at enhancing global competitiveness and developing the entire value chain from seed production to garment manufacturing.

A woman harvesting cotton in Kenya [Photo Credit: NT]

The supplier landscape in the EAC fashion market is diverse but dominated by international players. China leads external supply, accounting for approximately 40% of imported fabrics, offering competitive prices across various fabric types. Indian manufacturers contribute about 25%, particularly excelling in printed cotton fabrics and traditional designs. Turkish suppliers have carved out a 15% market share in the medium to high-end segment, known for quality fabrics with contemporary designs.

ALSO READ: Will East Africa's Fashion E-commerce Prove Itself Globally in 2025?

Local manufacturing, though currently meeting only 20% of market demand, maintains a significant presence through key players across member states. Kenya's RIVATEX (Rift Valley Textile Mills) has undergone modernization to enhance capacity. Tanzania's Mutex-Musoma, Uganda's Southern Range Nyanza Limited, Rwanda's UTEXIRWA, and Burundi's Afritextile continue to focus on cotton-based fabrics, though they face challenges in accommodating smaller orders from middle-income fashion designers.

The supply chain faces several structural challenges. Port congestion at Mombasa and Dar es Salaam can delay imports, though recent infrastructure investments have improved efficiency. Quality control remains inconsistent across member states despite established regional standards. However, these challenges create opportunities for suppliers who can maintain consistent quality and reliable delivery.

The Port of Mombasa in Kenya [Photo Credit: NT]

Market trends vary across EAC countries but share some common threads. Environmental awareness has increased demand for sustainable fabrics, though price sensitivity remains a limiting factor. Fabrics incorporating traditional African patterns with contemporary elements enjoy strong demand, particularly among younger consumers, and for government-sponsored events—Tanzania and Burundi, in particular, frequently commission custom fabrics for national events and political activities.

Members of the current leading the politics in Tanzania, wearing  dominant green outfits [Photo Credit: NT] 

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), ratified in 2019, presents new opportunities for market expansion. Creating the largest trading bloc since the World Trade Organization's inception, it aims to eliminate trade barriers across a market of over 1.3 billion people with a combined GDP of $3.4 trillion. This agreement could strengthen the regional collaboration among cotton growers, ginners, and textile companies, though infrastructure limitations and complex origin regulations pose challenges.

A significant challenge facing the market is the prevalence of second-hand clothes (SHC). The EAC accounts for 12.5% of global SHC imports, creating an estimated 3.4 million jobs. While some advocate for restrictions on SHC imports to protect local manufacturing, others argue that the sector contributes to sustainable practices and provides affordable clothing options. Each ton of SHC imported creates approximately 7.58 jobs, supporting millions of households across the region.

A woman selling second hand clothes in Uganda   [Photo Credit: NT]

Looking ahead, several opportunities exist for fabric suppliers in the EAC market. E-commerce platforms are connecting suppliers directly with fashion designers and manufacturers. Value-added services like digital printing and specialized finishes command premium prices, while international suppliers increasingly collaborate with local distributors to better understand regional preferences.

The market's future success depends on addressing key challenges: controlling counterfeit products, managing raw material costs and exchange rate fluctuations, and developing local expertise in modern textile technologies. As one expert notes, establishing dedicated fashion schools and training centers across the EAC will be crucial for competing with imported fabrics and developing local manufacturing capabilities.

Inside a Chinese textiles factory in Ethiopia [Photo Credit: NT]

The EAC fashion market continues to evolve, presenting significant opportunities for fabric suppliers who can navigate its complexities while meeting evolving consumer demands. Success requires understanding local market dynamics, establishing reliable supply chains, and maintaining consistent quality standards within this rapidly growing market.

Fashion Trends Africa by RCFS