Eco Fashion Week Africa, launched in Kenya, aims to revolutionize fashion events by tackling global textile waste. Our mission is to create a Fashion Week where the power of fashion is used to leave a positive imprint and create a runway that represents a platform for progress, setting a global standard for a fashion industry that genuinely enriches our planet and empowers its people.
We are guided by a vision of going beyond the runway to sow the seeds of change across fields of textile waste, uniting designers, artisans, and consumers in the art of ecological responsibility. Through intergenerational activities like education, collaboration, and cultural celebration in Africa, we awaken a global audience to the power of conscious consumption in the fashion industry.
Eco Fashion Week Africa has successfully hosted two impactful events dedicated to the “No New Clothes” movement, emphasizing the importance of sustainable fashion through upcycling and ethical practices.
Volume 1 Held in November 2023 introduced the concept by showcasing designers who utilized existing materials to create innovative and eco-friendly collections.
VOL 2 Recap
● Day 1: Talks on Circular Fashion
The week commenced with insightful discussions led by experts in sustainable fashion. The event was held at the Delight Technical College. Speakers delved into topics such as circularity in the fashion industry, ethical sourcing, and the environmental impacts of textile waste. The session provided a platform for student designers, brand owners, and eco-conscious leaders to exchange ideas and strategies for promoting sustainability in fashion. The speakers included representatives from Intex, Delight Technical College, Moi University, Mtaa Safi Initiative, Off Cut Kenya,
Day 2: ‘No New Clothes’ Runway at Gem Forest
Held at the Gem Forest in Nairobi, the ‘No New Clothes’ runway showcased innovative designs created entirely from upcycled materials. Designers presented collections that emphasized creativity and environmental responsibility, challenging traditional fashion norms and highlighting the beauty of sustainable design. The designers included, Afrowema, YarnlyChic, Akala 21, Mariam Couture Design, Off-Cut, Mabatini. The panel discussion was on Collaboration between industries for a Green Transition.
Day 4: Clothes Swapping Event at Alliance Française in Mombasa
The event moved to Mombasa, where a clothes swapping session was held at Alliance Française. Attendees exchanged pre-loved garments, promoting the reuse of clothing and reducing the demand for new production. This interactive event encouraged sustainable consumer habits and highlighted the value of extending the life cycle of garments.
Day 5: Fashion Runway at Saffron Garden and Cocktail Event at Lion in the Sun
The final day featured a glamorous fashion show at Saffron Garden Malindi, where designers unveiled their latest sustainable collections amidst an elegant setting. The week concluded with a cocktail event at Lion in the Sun, providing attendees with an opportunity to network, reflect on the week’s insights, and celebrate the collective efforts towards a more sustainable fashion future.
How we are redefining the fashion landscape by promoting sustainability
Eco Fashion Week Africa (EFWA) is at the forefront of redefining the fashion landscape by championing sustainability and aligning its initiatives with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through innovative events and practices, EFWA is transforming the industry into a force for positive environmental and social impact.
Promoting Circular Fashion
EFWA emphasizes circular fashion, a model that extends the lifecycle of garments through recycling, repurposing, and reusing materials. This approach minimizes waste and reduces the need for new resources, contrasting with the traditional linear model of make, wear, and discard. By hosting events like the “No New Clothes Runway,” EFWA encourages designers to creatively utilize existing materials, thereby reducing textile waste and promoting sustainable consumption.
Aligning with Sustainable Development Goals
EFWA’s initiatives contribute to several SDGs, including:
● SDG 1: No Poverty: By promoting sustainable fashion, EFWA supports economic opportunities for local artisans and communities, helping to alleviate poverty.
● SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production: EFWA advocates for sustainable design strategies, the use of eco-friendly technologies, and responsible resource management throughout the textile supply chain.
● SDG 13: Climate Action: Through its emphasis on reducing textile waste and promoting sustainable practices, EFWA contributes to efforts against climate change.
Inclusivity at Eco Fashion Week Africa
Inclusivity is central to Eco Fashion Week Africa’s mission to transform the fashion industry. We create intergenerational events that bring together diverse individuals—fashion brands, industry leaders, and environmental advocates—to drive sustainable change. By breaking down barriers and fostering collaboration, EFWA ensures that everyone, from all walks of life, plays a part in shaping a more sustainable future for fashion.
Educational Workshops and Community Engagement
Beyond fashion shows, EFWA organizes educational workshops, forums, and community clean-up activities to raise awareness about textile waste and environmental stewardship. These intergenerational events engage individuals from all walks of life, fostering a culture of conscious consumption and ecological responsibility.
By integrating these initiatives, Eco Fashion Week Africa is not only redefining the fashion industry but also making significant strides toward a more sustainable and equitable world.
Read all about ECO Fashion Week Africa here.