As Hub of Africa Fashion Week celebrated its 15th edition in Addis Ababa in 2026, founder Mahlet Teklemariam reflected in a Tadias Magazine Q&A on the growth of the African fashion industry and the event's role in it. Held at the Hyatt Regency, the event featured designers from various African countries and emphasized industry-building alongside creativity. Teklemariam highlighted the platform's evolution from filling a gap in African fashion infrastructure to fostering global dialogue and sustainable businesses.
Hub of Africa Fashion Week (HAFW) held its 15th edition in Addis Ababa at the Hyatt Regency in January 2026. Founder Mahlet Teklemariam, in a Q&A with Tadias Magazine, described the milestone as a reflection of the African fashion industry's growth. "When we began this journey, there were far fewer visible platforms for African designers. Today, we see an abundance of brands emerging from across the continent, confidently telling their stories and building sustainable businesses," she said.
The event originated from Teklemariam's work as Fashion Editor for Tadias in 2002, where she promoted diaspora African designers in the US. Returning to Ethiopia, she aimed to address the lack of fashion infrastructure on the continent, inspired by events like New York Fashion Week. HAFW goes beyond runways, incorporating panel discussions, masterclasses, and pop-up markets to provide designers with knowledge, networks, and market access. It involves stakeholders like government bodies, the British Council, and manufacturers through incubation programs and policy dialogues.
This year's lineup included designers from Kenya, Nigeria, Cameroon, South Africa, and for the second time, Russia via a collaboration with Moscow Fashion Week linked to the BRICS Fashion Summit. Teklemariam emphasized curation based on "diversity, authenticity, and a commitment to craft and storytelling." Over the past 15 years, African fashion in Addis Ababa has seen a rise in brands, a shift toward ready-to-wear while preserving traditional attire tied to cultural identity. Younger generations increasingly embrace Made-in-Ethiopia and Made-in-Africa products.
Partnerships such as the British Council's Creative DNA program offer long-term support, helping designers access international opportunities. The Core Round Table, in its second year with Linda Murithi, facilitated high-level discussions among industry players to address gaps and foster collaboration. Looking ahead, Teklemariam remains committed despite challenges, advising young designers: "Stay true to your identity and do not give up. Keep telling Africa’s stories—our cultures, crafts, and heritage." The event's move to January aligns with diaspora season, enhancing global-local connections.
