How the Kenyan local fashion industry is set to boom in 2024
It’s about to be a good year for Kenyan local designers as the fashion industry pays close attention to them this year.
Kenya’s local fashion industry is a dynamic enterprise as it constantly evolves in different aspects, including creativity and global trends.
It has a huge potential for creating jobs and economic opportunities.
However, competition from second-hand clothing imports and the slow adoption of technology remain a major challenge.
A new report on the status of the local fashion industry indicates low priced second-hand clothing imports continue to dominate the market, creating unfair competition for local designers.
The Kenyan Fashion Industry Needs Analysis Report 2022, commissioned by the British Council in Kenya, however, notes there could be an opportunity to increase market share by creating awareness for products ‘Made in Kenya’.
Now looking at future prospects for the local industry, 20 dynamic Kenya-based startups have been selected by the British Council’s Creative DNA Programme in its fourth edition of ‘Nurturing Kenya’s Fashion Innovators’. This initiative is meant to propel the local fashion industry to new heights.
The Creative DNA 4.0 cohort designers include Itikadi Fashion House, Atieno Yarns, Ankole luxury, Solo Nairobi, Reinas Gowns Kenya, JoDesign254, Kiseroleather, Omina Otsieno, Dhana Vito, Metis, Okana Couture, NAWIRI, Alienated Route, Manna, Klubwear apparels, YOSHITA 1967, Istyle Kenya, Kiarie_afrika, Kali Works, Wakianda Studio,
The British Council is working with local fashion designers to boost the growth of a sustainable creative industry through a programme aimed at developing their skills, knowledge, and global networks.
The programme dubbed Creative DNA is supporting designers through the development of business and creative skills focusing primarily on promoting alternative and innovative approaches to the global fashion system.
The Creative DNA 4.0 programme will offer business incubation support to 20 Kenyan-based early-stage fashion and accessory enterprises. Created to provide business skill development, strengthen networks in Kenya and in the UK, and offer action-based learning through digital coaching sessions, co-created online campaigns, and market opportunities.
The CDNA programme will make available 5 seed grants to increase the ability of the participants to innovate and chart a new path for their businesses.