Black Star fashion summit sells Ghana’s style dream

Black Star fashion summit sells Ghana’s style dream

Ghana is looking to turn its fashion industry into a business opportunity following the maiden Black Star Fashion Week Summit held in Accra on November 4.

The summit brought together designers, government officials, investors and other creative players under the theme “Put Ghana On”. It focused on how Ghanaian fashion can gain recognition internationally.

Discussions highlighted Ghana’s fashion identity, including Kente and Fugu fabrics, Adinkra symbols, weaving and beadwork. These cultural materials give designers ideas for creating modern clothing while preserving the country’s heritage.

Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts Abla Dzifa Gomashie described fashion as an important part of the creative economy. She said it could create jobs for young people, encourage entrepreneurship, attract investment and increase exports.

The industry also supports workers beyond designers. Tailors, weavers, textile producers, models, photographers, makeup artists, stylists, marketers and retailers contribute. With better funding, production facilities and access to markets, these activities can provide more people with income.

Summit coordinator Rex Omar announced that the Black Star Experience Secretariat plans to publish an annual Ghana Fashion Industry Report from 2027. It is expected to provide information about the sector and guide investment and policy decisions. Organisers also want to recognise pioneers who helped build Ghana’s fashion industry.

Attention is turning to December. Minister Gomashie announced that Ghana is expected to host about 4,000 participants from across Africa for a continental celebration of gastronomy, fashion, music, film and theatre from December 9 to 12, 2026. Known as AFESTAC, the gathering is expected to give creatives opportunities to display their work, meet industry players and explore business partnerships.

The summit shows that fashion is more than entertainment or clothing. Ghana hopes to use its creative talent and cultural identity to build businesses, create employment and strengthen its place in the global fashion industry.