What Will Rwanda's Fashion Designers and Kuza Africa Gain from FIDAK 2024 in Dakar, Senegal?

Kuza Africa is set to participate in the International Fair of Dakar (FIDAK 2024) in Senegal, the largest annual trade fair in West Africa. The 10-day trade exchange program, running from November 28th to December 15th, 2024, will provide designers with invaluable international market exposure.

"We are taking three of our outstanding members; Afrolago, Kezem, and Izubaa to represent the creativity and innovation of Rwanda's fashion industry on the global stage," says Maximilien Kolbe, CEO of Kuza Africa.

In the photo is Kuza team members together with local fashion designers in their way heading to Senegal [Photo Credit: Kuza Africa]

Afrolago: Empowering Through Craftsmanship

Founded in 2020, Afrolago is a leather product manufacturing company with a compelling mission. Beyond creating high-quality leather bags, shoes, and sandals at affordable prices, the company is dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities. By providing specialized training and employment opportunities in leather craftsmanship, Afrolago champions inclusivity and demonstrates that talent knows no boundaries.

The collection made by Afrolago [Photo credit: Kezem]

IZUBAA: Celebrating Rwandan Heritage

Established in 2021, IZUBAA is an international fashion house committed to promoting Rwandan products. The brand seeks to transform African fashion by crafting suits that ingeniously blend traditional 80s and 90s styles with contemporary design. IZUBAA's vision extends beyond clothing; It aims to celebrate and showcase Rwandan cultural heritage through artful fashion that resonates with a global audience.

The collection made by Izubaa  [Photo credit: Kezem]

Kezem: Storytelling Through Design

Kezem, founded in 2020, is a Rwandan fashion brand that meticulously weaves cultural narratives into its designs. By integrating traditional techniques like embroidery, beading, and distinctive printing methods with modern silhouettes, the brand creates garments that are both contemporary and deeply rooted in tradition.

The collection made by Kezem [Photo credit: Kezem]

The brand's symbolic cow horn logo pays homage to Rwandan cultural traditions, where cows symbolize wealth and prosperity. Through each collection, Kezem aspires to elevate Rwandan culture on the global stage, offering sustainable fashion that tells rich, meaningful stories.

The FIDAK 2024 participation encompasses several strategic objectives such as: Showcase Rwandan fashion designers to an international audience, facilitate connections with Senegalese and West African retail partners, explore trade practices and market dynamics in West Africa, promote cross-border collaboration in the fashion industry, and to reinforce Rwanda's reputation as a hub for sustainable and innovative fashion.

The 32nd edition of the International Dakar Fair (FIDAK) will take place from November 28 to December 15, 2024, at the International Center for International Trade of Senegal (CICES).

For these designers, the opportunity represents more than a trade fair, it's a platform for expanding market reach, building professional networks, and enhancing brand visibility beyond Rwanda's borders.

Local fashion professionals have mixed perspectives on international exhibitions. One Kigali-based designer expressed hope for more such opportunities, emphasizing the need for startups to access international platforms. An entertainment journalist highlighted the importance of cross-cultural communication, noting the distinct business approaches between East and West African markets.

"Our fashion designers need to be more proactive," the journalist noted. "It's not just about displaying products, but effectively communicating with diverse clients and understanding different business cultures."

Maximilien Kolbe emphasized the careful preparation of the designers and acknowledged the crucial support from sponsors. "Wallonie-Bruxelles International and APEFE Rwanda have been instrumental in making this opportunity possible," he stated. Their commitment to empowering African talent provides a critical platform for global exposure.

Kuza Africa team memebers together with Local fashion desgners in prepration meeting [Photo Credit:Kuza Africa]

The International Fair of Dakar- FIDAK2024  remains the most influential trade fair in West Africa, attracting global exhibitors, industry leaders, and diverse audiences. For Kuza Africa, this participation represents more than a business opportunity. It's a strategic step in supporting African creative entrepreneurs and promoting sustainable business practices.

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