The United Nations Educational, Scientific & Cultural Organization (UNESCO), last weekend, played host to the global edition of the Africa Fashion Reception at its headquarters in Paris.

The annual event organized by Nigeria’s Legendary Gold Limited in partnership with UNESCO and the African Union, attracted diplomats, captains of industries, celebrities, the media, investors and buyers for an evening of high fashion and glamour.

Firmin Matoko, Audrey Azoulay

The 6th edition themed, “Africa is the new inspiration for global fashion”, saw 12 designers from 12 African countries participating at the show. Angola’s designer, We Rock opened the show that saw models strutting the runway in Africa inspired pieces crafted from prints and other western fabrics. Nigeria was represented by Neopele.

Other designers who took part in the show include; Lov’It – Cameroon, Sebeatu – Ethiopia, Cocomod – Rwanda, EryMerra – Togo, Lindsay Apparel Palace – Eswatini (Swaziland), Second Life Upcircled Garments– Uganda, Lammari collection – Algeria, RegardeMoi Couture – Angola and Maxotablond – Cameroon.

Ben Sax

Muma G

The event was spiced with musical performances by London-based Nigerian saxophonist, Ben Saxy who welcomed guests with music from around the African continent. Also, Congolese Diva, Shana Malonga took the stage at some point. The evening got to the peak when Nigerian delectable singer, Muma G took to the stage.

She was accorded a standing ovation by the very appreciative audience. Africa was felt at some point, when BDC Ballet de la diaspora Camerounaise, performed drumming and dancing.

Audrey Azoulay

The show was watched by The Director General of UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay, Assistant Director General for Africa, UNESCO, Firmin Edouard Matoko and other important dignitaries.

Lexy Mojo Eyes, CEO of Legendary Gold Limited

Lexy Mojo Eyes, CEO of Legendary Gold Limited, says, the event was not only to build bridges by creating free trade and partnerships among fashion practitioners throughout the African continent, it was also to attract global attention to Africa’s very rich and diversified dress culture, which can be explored as a catalyst for the social economic growth of the continent’s garment/textile industry.

Ivory Coast’s designer Zeady, closed the show with his amazing collection while a satisfied audience cheered.

By Jemi Ekunkunbor