10th Africa Sourcing, Fashion Week begins
ADDIS ABABA:- Ethiopia’s textile and leather industry has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, gaining global recognition and competitiveness, according to the Minister of Industry.
The 10th edition of Africa Sourcing and Fashion Week (ASFW), Africa’s premier trade platform for the textile, fashion, and leather industries, is being held in Addis Ababa from November 8-11, 2024.
The event has brought together global brands, industry leaders, and innovators, attracting over 7,000 trade buyers from more than 60 countries. ASFW serves as a vital platform for industry professionals to connect, collaborate, and forge new partnerships.
Delivering the opening remarks, a member of the Executive Board of Messe Frankfurt GmbH (official partner), Detlef Braun, emphasized the growing prominence of ASFW. “As we celebrate 10 years of ASFW, we are incredibly proud of the role we have played in shaping the future of Africa’s fashion and textile industries. This milestone reflects not only our achievements but the collective efforts of our valued partners, exhibitors, and attendees,” he stated.
Deputy Head of Mission at the German Embassy in Ethiopia, Ferdinand von Weyhe, praised Ethiopia’s bold economic reforms, highlighting the critical role the textile and leather industries play in supporting these reforms and driving economic growth. He noted that Ethiopian products are increasingly reaching international markets, further diversifying the nation’s market destinations.
Industry Minister, Melaku Alebel, reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting the textile and leather industries through bold reforms and initiatives. He cited the establishment of a manufacturing industry council as a step towards addressing sector challenges and aligning with Ethiopia’s economic ambitions. Melaku also highlighted the success of the “Made in Ethiopia” campaign launched two years ago, which has uplifted local manufacturing and promoted Ethiopian products regionally and globally.
UNIDO’s Director of the Division of Gender Equality and Women Empowerment, Aurelia Patrizia Calabrò, commended ASFW’s contributions to fashion, sourcing, sustainability, and innovation over the past decade. She noted the event’s success in attracting more exhibitors, visitors, and conference attendees, cementing its premier status in the fashion industry. Calabrò added that ASFW remains a vital platform for fostering business networking, promoting investment, and connecting Africa’s fashion and manufacturing industries with global counterparts.
Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa highlighted the event’s potential for business networking, brand building, and audience engagement along the textile and fashion value chain. She also pointed to the emergence of fashion tourism as an exciting trend, adding that Ethiopia’s long-standing reputation as a cotton producer further enhances its potential in the global fashion industry.
ASFW showcases the work of top designers from across Africa, presenting creative collections that highlight the versatility of African textiles and leather. The event provides a vibrant environment for buyers to discover new brands, source high-quality materials, and establish valuable partnerships, underscoring its role as a cornerstone of Africa’s textile and leather industries.
BY HAILE DEMEKE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 9 NOVEMBER 2024
