Ethiopia Fashion Industry in Promoting Local Fashion Designers Through the Creative DNA Program 2024

Made in Ethiopia by Natanem Couture Showcasing at Hub of Africa Fashion Week 2024  (HAFW) [PHOTO NC]

The fashion and textile industry in Ethiopia is growing faster and it is among top the leading fashion hubs on the continent. In 2024, the revenue in the Apparel market in Ethiopia amounts to US$2.86bn and it is projected that the market will experience an annual growth rate of 4.19% (CAGR 2024-2028). The largest segment in this market is Women's Apparel, which is estimated to have a market volume of US$1.19bn in 2024. Ethiopia's apparel market is rapidly growing, with an increasing number of international brands investing in the country's textile industry. It is estimated that 99% of sales in the Apparel market in Ethiopia will be generated by Non-Luxury by 2024

Made in Ethiopia  by AFROPIAN  showcasing at Hub of Africa Fashion Week 2024  (HAFW) [PHOTO NC]

 The secret behind this growth in the fashion sector is the government's initiatives to support heavily local fashion designers in partnership with other partners as well as investors in the textile industry and farmers. Among the top partners are Creative Hub Ethiopia and the British Council through its program Creative DNA. The Creative DNA Ethiopia is part of the SSA Arts Creative Economy Programme, which supports the creation of new art and fosters partnerships between the creative sectors of the UK and East Africa. The Programme is committed to promoting innovation, creativity, equality, diversity, and inclusion.

The Creative Hub Ethiopia supports creative innovators, designers, and SMEs in various fields by deepening their understanding of global design and industrial concepts, providing state-of-the-art working tools and resources, and enhancing the link between young innovators, and industrial and governmental entities.

Made in Ethiopia  Tibebu Collection  showcasing at Hub of Africa Fashion Week 2024  (HAFW) [PHOTO NC]

Ten Ethiopian-based, early-stage fashion and accessory enterprises, have been selected to be part of the Creative DNA Ethiopia Programme. The program provides them to acquire a deeper insight into the UK fashion industry, establish valuable connections, and introduce both themselves and their creative endeavours to a global audience. The reative DNA Ethiopia, an innovative fashion incubation programme dedicated to nurturing early-stage fashion designers in Ethiopia, is thrilled to announce the launch of its second cohort. Building on the success of its inaugural program, Creative DNA: Ethiopia continues to foster creativity, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth within the Ethiopian fashion industry.

ALSO READ: THE CREATIVE DNA PROGRAMME AT NAIROBI DESIGN WEEK 2024: A SPECTACULAR 20 LOCAL FASHION DESIGNERS

This initiative of the British Council aims to provide invaluable support and resources to emerging fashion talents, empowering them to realize their creative visions and establish thriving fashion businesses. Through a comprehensive six-week incubation program, participants will receive tailored mentorship, business training, networking opportunities, and access to market insights, equipping them with the necessary tools to succeed in the competitive fashion landscape.

The selection process for the second cohort of Creative DNA: Ethiopia was highly competitive, with numerous talented designers vying for a coveted spot in the program. After a rigorous evaluation process, The CDNA team is proud to announce the acceptance of ten promising fashion entrepreneurs into the program.

“Through Creative DNA: Ethiopia, the British Council aims at not just incubating designers; we’re incubating a vision for a vibrant and diverse fashion landscape. As we launch the second cohort, we reinforce our dedication to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Ethiopian fashion. Through collaborative efforts, we aim to propel emerging designers towards global recognition, contributing to the cultural and economic fabric of Ethiopia.” Bezawit Damtew, British Council Arts Programme Director.

Bezawit Damtew, British Council Arts Programme Director.

“Creative DNA: Ethiopia’s evolution underscores our commitment to nurturing the diverse tapestry of Ethiopian fashion. This year, we’re shifting gears to prioritize early-stage designers crafting timeless, day-to-day wear. Our focus on mass production-oriented designers highlights the vibrant spectrum of design aesthetics while paving the way for a new era of accessible, everyday fashion innovation.” Solome Daniel, Creative DNA: Ethiopia Project Manager. 

The second cohort of Creative DNA: Ethiopia is poised to make a significant impact on the Ethiopian fashion scene, driving innovation, sustainability, and economic growth within the industry. CDNA is committed to supporting the success and development of these talented designers, further solidifying Ethiopia’s position as a hub of creativity and talent in the global fashion arena.

Designers Joining Creative DNA Ethiopia 2.0 Program

Selected fashion designers to participate in the Creative DNA Ethiopia program 2024 [PHOTO BC]

Reborn:  is a fashion brand that breathes hope and exudes strength. We poured hours of meticulous love and care into every stitch, ensuring that each garment carried an intangible magic that could uplift the spirit and inspire greatness. We embark on a journey to celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of Ethiopia and Africa, weaving these timeless stories into our masterpieces.

DolMel: is an Ethiopian fashion brand bringing a millennia-old tradition of hand-weaving into the 21st century. One of the focus areas of our startup business is the cultural heritage aspect it takes from the historic ‘Shemena’ hand-weaving industry. DolMel developed a solution to dramatically impact the textile industry in Ethiopia by using high-tech digital reactive printing on our hand-woven fabric to produce rolls of various kinds of seamless patterns to create innovative products that are the first of their kind in the country. 

DAGMAWIT: Our brand is a celebration of self-love and individuality. With a vision to inspire confidence and empowerment, our designs weave together elements of culture, uniqueness, and the transformative power of self-appreciation. Each garment serves as a reminder of the wearer’s inherent beauty and worth, fostering a deep emotional connection with every piece. Committed to inclusivity and authenticity, we aim to leave a lasting impact on the fashion industry by redefining beauty standards and spreading the message of self-love worldwide.  

SÉRALESTI: Is a casual wear brand that celebrates the weaving techniques of Ethiopia. We dream of seeing Séralesti adorning individuals worldwide, each piece not just an outfit, but a conversation starter, sparking curiosity about Ethiopian artistry and heritage. 

Shadez Wear: is an Ethiopian based streetwear and accessories brand that launched three years ago. It caters to both female and male customers, focusing on functional, futuristic(tech wear aesthetic/post modern)designs that incorporate color and pattern therapy, as well as artistic, expressive, and innovative styles. Dedicated to sustainable fashion, quality finishing and innovative product handling. With a commitment to ethical sourcing, innovative design, and cultural exchange. We strive to tell a story with wearable art. Since our launch, we have been working in a team with the launch of ashara and africa mosaique magazine launch for 2021.

MESMER: is working towards the integration of Ethiopian as well as African cultural designs and tribal patterns in fusion with innovative modern fashion. The goal for the future is to set up a process of exhibitions, fashion shows, and entrepreneurial workshops for the rich cultural Diversity in Africa.

MEAZA Clothing: MEAZA is a sustainable fashion and lifestyle brand established in 2019 with a great vision to become an embodiment of made in Africa to the world by intending to bring a contemporary African touch in  everyday wear using locally sourced handwoven fabric.

Nikisat: meaning ‘Tattoo’ in Amharic is a casual wear brand based in Addis Ababa Ethiopia established in January 2022. We produce different clothing made from hand woven Ethiopian fabrics made by skilled local artisans. Founded by Eyerusalem Alemayehu who was born and raised in Addis Ababa Ethiopia. started from a childhood dream and a passion for art and fashion.

Demi Design: Demii creates exceptional and innovative designs that celebrate Ethiopian artistry, empower local weavers and artisans, and promote the use of Ethiopian handwoven fabric materials. We are committed to preserving the rich cultural heritage of Ethiopia by incorporating traditional weaving techniques into our designs, and by providing sustainable livelihoods for local communities. Through our work, we aim to showcase the beauty of Ethiopian handwoven fabrics to the world, while supporting the artisans who keep this ancient craft alive. 

NEDፍ Design: Our slogan, “Crafting imagination!” encapsulates the core philosophy of NEDፍ design. We believe that everyone has a unique story to tell, and our leather sketches provide a canvas for self-expression. Whether it’s a hand-drawn illustration, a personalized monogram, or an intricate pattern, our customers can bring their ideas to life with our high-quality leather products.

RCFS'S MEDIA