Patronize African Print - Tourism Minister

Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, Minister of Tourism has asked Ghanaians and Africans to patronize African prints as the continent prepares to celebrate its maiden edition of the African Union (AU) Fashion Festival.

During the official launch of the AU Fashion Festival at the National Theatre, the Minister stated that the institution of the festival was in fulfillment of the Union’s aim to promote unity among African states through events.

“Generally, interest in our African print in Ghana has increased tremendously all over with a lot more people wearing them all week long and not only on Fridays,” Miss Ofosu-Adjare said.

The event themed ‘Our Continent, Our Fashion, Our Concern’ would see renowned fashion designers, models and stakeholders around Africa participate in fashion photo shoots, workshops and an official AU Fashion show in July.

“I urge all of you to try and grab an African print, sew it and proudly wear it. Try to also adorn yourself with African jewellery and you will see how it compliments your overall appearance and improves your outlook. I must commend all fashion houses and designers both locally and internationally who are partaking in this fashion festival and also ensuring that our African print becomes the most sought-after fabric,” she added.

According to the Minister of Tourism, the fashion industry in Ghana, if properly managed, would create jobs and alleviate poverty.

“It is for these reasons that my ministry endorses this festival. The ministry recognizes the need for the development of Ghanaian, and by extension, African fashion. African Fashion has a global appeal and the success story of the Ghanaian Kente cloth illustrates it. Indeed, no visitor to Ghana can avoid Kente and any visitor to Ghana will purchase something with Kente inspiration. Kente is now synonymous to Ghanaian culture and it is part of our tourism appeal,” the Minister pointed out.

Fashion designers like Kofi Ansah witnessed a short display of spectacular African designs by models from Links Models Agency.