“I design outfits mostly using African fabrics commonly known as "Kitenge'' which sometimes I mix with other plain materials because it gives me a number of options for the products I can design with it. I always use materials that emphasize my roots,’’ Nakafeero told TRT Afrika.

With events such as the Kampala Fashion Awards, the Ugandan capital hopes to attract more attention from the clothing market in the eastern part of Africa and beyond.

The success of designers such as Josephine is also significant in the context of Africa's growing fashion industry, which is struggling to compete with imports from other countries.

According to an association of Ugandan manufacturers, East Africa spends around US$350 million on imported clothing, creating a significant opportunity for local designers to tap into a growing market.

 

 

By emphasising their roots and promoting local materials, designers like Josephine are helping to build a thriving African fashion industry that is capable of competing on a global scale.

"Our business requires resilience, patience, sacrifice and courage because we have to work full time,” Nakafeero said.

“I would like to show the world that in Uganda, there are also fans of fashion.”

Josephine Nakafeero on the runway 

Josephine Nakafeero's creations 

Josephine Nakafeero wears her designs 

Made by Josephine Nakafeero's fashion house  

Story By Kudra Maliro