Six African fashion brands have been selected to join the newly formed Ethical Fashion Initiative Accelerator Programme created by Simone Cipriani in collaboration with Europe Aid, the United Nations and the World Trade Organisation.
EFI promotes fair labour conditions and sustainable fashion.
As a member of The United Nations Alliance for Sustainable Fashion, it encourages the use of traditional techniques in the production of garments and accessories.
The selected designers that are participating in this year’s Ethical Fashion Initiative Accelerator are:
The Wuman Brand (Nigeria)
Founded by Ekwerike Chukwuma, Wuman is a menswear and womenswear brand based in Port Harcourt. The brand produces ready-to-wear garment made with locally-sourced fabrics.
Lukhanyo Mdingi (South Africa)
This eponymous label was launched with the aim of producing luxury and classic pieces by using locally sourced and sustainable materials
De La Sebure (Burkina Faso)
Founded by a former financial auditor, Bernie Seb, this menswear brand produces hand-crafted, African made garments that incorporate Western elements.
Jiamini (Kenya)
An accessory brand focused on creating unique jewellery pieces and beadwork.
Margaux Wong (Burundi)
Founded by Margaux Rusita, the brand’s aim is creating wearable art using locally sourced and discarded materials. Margaux Wong pushes sustainability and environmental awareness.
Reign (South Africa)
Founded by the duo, Sipho Mbuto and ben Nozo. Reign is a streetwear brand based in Durban which is known for its non-binary, sustainable clothing usually done in monochromatic colours
