Category: Africa

Posted on

Egypt: President El-Sisi Meets United Arab Emirates (UAE) President His Highness (HH) Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed in New El-Alamain City

Source: APO – Report:

.

Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, His highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at El-Alamain Airport.

Spokesman for the Presidency Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy said President El-Sisi welcomed His Highness, the President of the United Arab Emirates, who is visiting his second home, Egypt, as an esteemed guest on a brotherly visit.

President El-Sisi underscored the special place His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and the brotherly State of the UAE hold in the hearts of Egypt and its people, given the robust, deep, and multifaceted historical relations between the two countries and their brotherly peoples.

For his part, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed expressed his profound gratitude and appreciation to the President for the warm reception, emphasizing the historical and fraternal bonds and relations the two countries’ leaderships and peoples share.

The two Presidents discussed bilateral relations, as well as regional and international issues of common concern. They focused particularly on the latest developments in the Middle East and ongoing efforts to avert further escalation. The two leaders reiterated the vital necessity to maintain close consultation, coordination, and joint action across various issues in light of the current challenges confronting the region.

– on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

Posted on

SA appeals for exemption from forced labour tariff

Source: Government of South Africa

SA appeals for exemption from forced labour tariff

South Africa has urged the United States of America to exempt it from a proposed 12.5% tariff linked to the importation of goods produced using forced labour.

This as the South African Government delegation led by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) participated in the public hearing on the US Section 301 Investigations on Forced Labour. 

Thursday’s session was held in Washington DC, and hosted by the Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) regarding Section 301 Investigations of Acts, Policies, and Practices of 60 Economies Related to the Failure to Impose and Effectively Enforce a Prohibition on the Importation of Goods Produced with Forced Labour.

“In the Oral Testimony, South Africa emphasised that the country has laws that prohibit forced labour and that the country has ratified the relevant ILO [ International Labour Organization] fundamental Conventions. Further, that South Africa has the legal framework to enforce the prohibition of the importation of goods produced using forced labour. 

“South Africa maintained that it has enabling legislation that contains provisions that can be invoked to deal with forced labour and administer and enforce a prohibition on the import of goods made (in whole or part) by forced labour,” said the department in a statement on Saturday.

It further added that the International Trade Administration Act empowers the relevant National Executive to prohibit or control the importation of any class of goods and the Customs and Excise Act empowers the revenue authority to stop, detain and seize prohibited goods at the border. South Africa already prohibits products produced through prison labour through Section 113 of the Customs and Excise Act.

“As a result, South Africa requested that the United States consider exempting the country from the 12.5% tariff proposed for countries that failed to impose and effectively enforce prohibition of importation of goods produced using forced labour,” said the department.

In the alternative, a proposal was made that South Africa’s exports to the United States, such as platinum-group and precious metals, vehicles, catamarans, citrus, seafood, wine and nuts, among others, be exempted from any proposed action as there is no evidence that the inputs are produced using forced labour.

The Office of USTR requested that stakeholders submit post-hearing submissions by 16 July 2026. Information for stakeholders wishing to make submissions on the Investigations is available on the USTR website. 

According to Minister Parks Tau, the United States remains an important trade partner and destination for South African exports.

“Government will continue bilateral engagements with the United States on all matters of interest, including on Section 301 investigations, renewal of the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and the Section232 tariffs that affect South African exports of steel and aluminium, and automobiles and auto components,” said the Minister.

The dtic was supported by the Department of Employment and Labour, the International Trade Administration Commission and the Embassy of South Africa in Washington DC. –SAnews.gov.za 
 

Neo

0

Posted on

La Conférence économique africaine 2026 s’ouvre à Abidjan pour explorer les voies d’une Afrique plus influente dans un monde multipolaire

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Les défis communs des pays africains requièrent de leur part une action collective pour façonner leur propre avenir dans un monde multipolaire : c’est l’état d’esprit émanant de la Conférence économique africaine (AEC) 2026, ouverte officiellement à Abidjan, en Côte d’Ivoire, au siège du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement (www.AfDB.org), autour du thème : « Renforcer l’action géopolitique et la résilience commerciale de l’Afrique dans un monde multipolaire ».

Organisée conjointement par le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement, le Programme des Nations unies pour le développement (PNUD) et l’Organisation de coopération et de développement économiques (OCDE), cette édition rassemble, du 10 au 12 juillet, des économistes de premier plan, des chercheurs, des responsables politiques ainsi que des experts issus d’institutions régionales et internationales de développement.

M. Souleymane Diarrassouba, ministre du Plan et du Développement et gouverneur de la Banque pour la République de Côte d’Ivoire a invité à une réflexion sur la place du continent face aux changements géopolitiques ; « L’Afrique ne peut plus se contenter d’être un simple réservoir de matières premières. Nous devons être considérés comme un acteur majeur des chaînes d’approvisionnement, un pôle d’industrialisation, capable de défendre ses intérêts au sein de la gouvernance économique internationale », a-t-il plaidé.

Face à des défis qui commandent de transformer la réflexion en action, le président de la Banque africaine de développement, le Dr Sidi Ould Tah a déclaré : « Pendant des décennies, les débats sur l’Afrique ont souvent porté sur la dépendance, la vulnérabilité et l’adaptation. Aujourd’hui, nous devons mettre l’accent sur l’autonomie, la résilience, la compétitivité et l’influence. L’autonomie géopolitique de l’Afrique se mesurera à sa capacité à négocier en position de force, à définir les règles du jeu, à traduire son intérêt collectif en action collective et, en fin de compte, à influencer les résultats. »

Cette vision s’inscrit pleinement dans la ligne stratégique « que j’ai définie à travers les Quatre points cardinaux et la Nouvelle architecture africaine de financement du développement -NAFAD », a-t-il ajouté.

Dans un environnement plein de défis, les intervenants ont pointé les impératifs incontournables afin d’inverser la situation, notamment dans la redéfinition des règles pour permettre à l’Afrique de consolider sa position stratégique, de renforcer sa résilience économique et de mieux tirer parti des opportunités offertes par un ordre international en mutation.

A la suite du président de la Banque Ould Tah, Mme Ahunna Eziakonwa, sous-secrétaire générale, directrice du Bureau régional pour l’Afrique du PNUD a déclaré : « Le monde est en train d’être réécrit. Le rôle de l’Afrique n’est plus de s’adapter aux règles imposées par d’autres, mais de contribuer à définir les règles de demain. Notre influence géopolitique ne nous sera pas accordée, nous devrons la mériter grâce à des institutions plus solides, à une intégration régionale plus poussée, à un commerce résilient et au courage d’agir ensemble. C’est lors de cette conférence que les idées se transforment en atout stratégique pour l’Afrique. »

Il ne s’agit plus de compter sur l’aide au développement mais de mieux l’utiliser et redéfinir un nouveau partenariat pour le développement a souligné M. Mathias Cormann, secrétaire général de l’Organisation de coopération et de développement économiques dans son intervention (par vidéo).

« Pour de nombreux pays partenaires, l’aide n’est plus une source de financement fiable ni en croissance. C’est une réalité qui donne à réfléchir, mais elle doit renforcer — et non affaiblir — notre détermination. Nous devons préserver et privilégier l’aide publique au développement là où elle est le plus nécessaire, tout en mobilisant des volumes bien plus importants de financements pour le développement provenant de toutes les sources », a ajouté Pilar Garrido, directrice de la coopération internationale pour le développement à l’OCDE.

La première journée de la conférence a été marquée par des débats approfondis sur l’industrialisation, le développement du capital humain, la transformation du secteur informel, l’emploi des femmes et des jeunes, la gouvernance des ressources naturelles, la transformation numérique de l’administration publique et la lutte contre la corruption. Les chercheurs ont présenté leurs travaux devant un panel d’experts et de décideurs, favorisant un dialogue constructif entre le monde académique et les responsables des politiques publiques.

Au cours des trois jours de travaux, les participants s’appuient sur des analyses rigoureuses et des données probantes pour identifier des solutions concrètes aux défis auxquels l’Afrique est confrontée. Parmi les thématiques abordées figurent notamment le renforcement de la capacité d’action financière du continent, ainsi que le développement des marchés de capitaux nationaux ou les répercussions des tensions internationales sur les économies africaines.

Depuis sa création en 2006, la Conférence économique africaine s’est imposée comme l’une des principales plateformes de réflexion sur les enjeux de développement du continent. Elle favorise le dialogue entre chercheurs, responsables publics, partenaires au développement et acteurs du secteur privé afin d’apporter des réponses innovantes aux défis socio-économiques de l’Afrique.

Elle illustre également comment une synergie entre institutions de développement (PNUD, OCDE, BAD) peut constituer une valeur ajoutée pour baliser une réflexion basée sur des données probantes afin d’accélérer le développement de l’Afrique.

L’édition 2026 de la Conférence économique africaine accueille également la réunion annuelle du Réseau mondial des économistes en chef des institutions de développement et de financement. Elle sera marquée par le lancement du Réseau africain des économistes en chef (ACE Network). La deuxième promotion de l’Académie de gestion des finances publiques pour l’Afrique et la première promotion de l’Académie de gestion des politiques macroéconomiques pour l’Afrique, recevront leurs diplômes au cours d’une cérémonie. 

Distribué par APO Group pour African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contact médias :
Banque africaine de développement
Amadou Mansour Diouf
media@afdb.org

Programme des Nations unies pour le développement
Eve Sabbagh
eve.sabbagh@undp.org

Organisation de coopération et de développement économiques
Eleanor Carey
Eleanor.CAREY@oecd.org  

Posted on

African Economic Conference 2026 opens in Abidjan to explore pathways for a more influential Africa in a multipolar world

Source: APO


.

African countries must act collectively to shape their own future in an increasingly multipolar world. This was the central message at the opening of the 2026 African Economic Conference (AEC) in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, hosted at the headquarters of the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) under the theme: “Strengthening Africa’s Geopolitical Agency and Trade Resilience in a Multipolar World.”

Jointly organized by the African Development Bank Group (AfDB), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), this year’s conference brings together leading economists, researchers, policymakers and experts from regional and international development institutions from 10 to 12 July.

Souleymane Diarrassouba, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Planning and Development and Governor of the Bank for Côte d’Ivoire, called for deeper reflection on Africa’s place amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.

“Africa can no longer be viewed merely as a reservoir of raw materials. We must be recognized as a key player in global supply chains, a hub for industrialization, and a force capable of defending its interests within international economic governance,” he said.

Urging participants to move from analysis to action, African Development Bank Group President Dr Sidi Ould Tah stressed the need for a new narrative centred on African agency and influence.

“For decades, discussions about Africa have focused on dependency, vulnerability and adaptation. Today, we must focus on autonomy, resilience, competitiveness and influence. Africa’s geopolitical autonomy will be measured by its ability to negotiate from a position of strength, shape the rules of the game, translate its collective interests into collective action and ultimately influence outcomes,” he said.

Dr Ould Tah added that this vision is fully aligned with the strategic framework he has outlined through the Four Cardinal Points and the New African Financing Architecture for Development (NAFAD).

Against a backdrop of mounting global challenges, speakers emphasized the urgent need to redefine international rules and arrangements to strengthen Africa’s strategic position, enhance its economic resilience and enable the continent to seize opportunities emerging from a rapidly changing global order.

Echoing these remarks, Ahunna Eziakonwa, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Director of the UNDP Regional Bureau for Africa, underscored Africa’s growing role in shaping global governance.

“The world is being rewritten. Africa’s role is no longer to adapt to rules made by others, but to help define the rules of tomorrow. Geopolitical influence will not be granted to us; it must be earned through stronger institutions, deeper regional integration, resilient trade and the courage to act together. This conference is where ideas become strategic assets for Africa,” she said.

In a video address, OECD Secretary-General Mathias Cormann highlighted the changing global development financing landscape, arguing that development assistance must be used more effectively while leveraging broader sources of investment.

“For many partner countries, aid is no longer a reliable or growing source of financing. This reality should prompt reflection, but it should strengthen—not weaken—our resolve. We must preserve and prioritize official development assistance where it is most needed while mobilizing significantly larger volumes of development finance from all available sources,” OECD Director of International Development Cooperation, Pilar Garrido added.

The conference’s opening day featured in-depth discussions on industrialization, human capital development, transformation of the informal sector, women’s and youth employment, natural resource governance, digital transformation of public administration and the fight against corruption. Researchers presented their findings before panels of experts and decision-makers, fostering constructive dialogue between academia and public policymakers.

Over the course of the three-day event, participants are drawing on rigorous analysis and evidence-based research to identify practical solutions to Africa’s most pressing challenges. Key topics under discussion include strengthening the continent’s financial agency, developing domestic capital markets and addressing the impact of international tensions on African economies.

Since its inception in 2006, the African Economic Conference has established itself as one of the continent’s premier platforms for policy dialogue and development thinking. It promotes collaboration among researchers, government officials, development partners and private-sector actors to generate innovative solutions to Africa’s socio-economic challenges.

The conference also demonstrates how collaboration among development institutions—including the UNDP, OECD and African Development Bank—can add value by supporting evidence-based policy discussions that accelerate Africa’s development agenda.

The 2026 edition further hosts the annual meeting of the Global Network of Chief Economists of Development and Financing Institutions and will feature the launch of the African Chief Economists Network (ACE Network). In addition, graduates of the second cohort of the Public Finance Management Academy for Africa and the inaugural cohort of the Macroeconomic Policy Management Academy for Africa will receive their diplomas during a special ceremony.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Media Contact:
African Development Bank Group
Amadou Mansour Diouf
media@afdb.org

United Nations Development Programme
Eve Sabbagh
eve.sabbagh@undp.org

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development
Eleanor Carey 
Eleanor.CAREY@oecd.org

Posted on

Police probe Wesbank shooting incident

Source: Government of South Africa

Police probe Wesbank shooting incident

Western Cape police are investigating two counts of murder and seven counts of attempted murder following a shooting incident in Wesbank during the early hours of Sunday, 12 July 2026.

In a statement, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said officers responded to a complaint at approximately 4:40 am in Godetia Street, where they found the bodies of a 22-year-old man and a 21-year-old woman who had sustained fatal gunshot wounds.

“Six adults and an infant were injured in the shooting and were admitted to hospital for medical treatment. The infant was subsequently transferred to Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital. The injured victims are reported to be in a stable condition.

“Preliminary investigations indicate that a group of people were gathered outside a residence when unknown suspects opened fire on them. Evidence recovered at the scene suggests that more than one assailant may have been involved in the attack,” said the SAPS.

The motive for the shooting is yet to be established and forms part of the ongoing investigation.

“The possibility that the incident may be gang-related is being investigated. In the wake of the incident, policing in the area has been reinforced to prevent further violence and any possible retaliatory attacks. No arrests have been made, and the suspects are yet to be identified,” said the police.

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is kindly requested to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or submit information anonymously via the MySAPS mobile application. –SAnews.gov.za

 

Neo

0

Posted on

SADC Water and Energy Ministers to meet ahead of Ordinary Summit

Source: Government of South Africa

SADC Water and Energy Ministers to meet ahead of Ordinary Summit

Ministers responsible for Energy and Water in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) will meet to deliberate on strategic issues aimed at strengthening regional energy security and improving water resource management.

The joint meeting will take place from 14 – 17 July 2026 in Pretoria, Republic of South Africa, in a hybrid format.

“[The meeting will] deliberate on strategic issues aimed at strengthening regional energy security, improving water resource management, and accelerating sustainable socio-economic development across the SADC region.

“The meeting will bring together Ministers, Senior Officials, representatives of the SADC Secretariat, Regional Institutions, Cooperating Partners and other stakeholders to review progress in implementing regional programmes and projects in the energy and water sectors, while providing policy direction on emerging priorities,” the SADC said in a statement.

The Ministers meet ahead of the 46th Ordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government, which will be held in August.

Energy Ministers are expected to review the electricity demand and supply in the region and assess progress made in “implementing regional energy projects designed to strengthen energy security”.

“Discussions will also focus on expanding renewable energy deployment, promoting energy efficiency, advancing the implementation of the Dar es Salaam Declaration on Mission 300 to increase electricity access in Sub-Saharan Africa by 2030, and promoting the development of hydrocarbons infrastructure, including fuel pipelines and storage facilities.

“Ministers will further deliberate on emerging technologies such as green hydrogen, smart grids and electric mobility, progress towards a regional Just Energy Transition Framework, clean cooking initiatives, and the outcomes of the 2026 SADC Sustainable Energy Week,” the statement read.

Meanwhile, Ministers of Water will turn their attention to “progress made in implementing regional water and sanitation projects, transboundary water initiatives coordinated through River Basin Organisations and Shared Water Institutions, as well as the implementation of previous Council decisions”.

“The meeting will also review progress under the SADC Groundwater Programme and the SADC Water Fund, while considering the extension of the implementation period for the Fifth Regional Strategic Action Plan (RSAP-V) to 2030.

“In addition, Ministers will discuss the review of the Revised Protocol on Shared Watercourses, human capacity development, and the Regional Research Agenda,” the statement continued.

The outcomes of the meeting will provide guidance for accelerating implementation of the SADC’s regional programmes aimed at achieving the objectives of the SADC Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP 2020-2030), the African Union Agenda 2063, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

“The Joint Meeting forms part of SADC’s continued efforts to promote regional integration through coordinated policy implementation, sustainable infrastructure development, improved access to reliable energy services, enhanced water security, climate resilience, and inclusive economic growth,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB

7

Posted on

Tributes continue for Adams and Makwedini 

Source: Government of South Africa

Tributes continue for Adams and Makwedini 

Tributes continue to pour in for Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams and former South African Rugby Under-18 prop Luqobo Makwedini.

Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie said he learned with deep sadness of the passing of Makwedini.

“Luqobo’s journey is one that speaks to the very best of what South African sport can produce. Born in Komga in the Eastern Cape, his talent on the field earned him a scholarship to Wynberg Boys High School in Cape Town, where his performances in the front row earned him national recognition at Under-18 level. 

“He went on to sign a three-year contract with Béziers [AS Béziers Hérault] and was on the cusp of realising his dream of professional senior rugby ahead of the club’s 2026/27 Pro D2 campaign,” said the Minister.

Makwedini collapsed during a training session on Friday.

“I extend my deepest condolences to Luqobo’s family, particularly at this time of grief, as well as his friends,teammates , Wynberg Boys High School, the entire AS Béziers Hérault family and the South African rugby community,” said the Minister in a statement on Saturday.

The Minister also conveyed his condolences to the family of Jayden Adams.

“South African football has lost one of its brightest young talents, and our nation mourns alongside his family, his teammates and the millions of supporters who watched him grow from a promising academy prospect into a full Bafana Bafana international,” the Minister said.

He added that Adams had featured in all three of South Africa’s group matches in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“On behalf of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, I extend my deepest condolences to Jayden’s family, his young daughter, his teammates at Mamelodi Sundowns, his fellow Bafana Bafana players and coaching staff, the South African Football Association, and the entire football fraternity,” said the Minister.

President Cyril Ramaphosa also conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased players.

“It is particularly tragic that we are suffering the loss of two outstanding young athletes at a time when our nation continues to immerse itself in the FIFA World Cup tournament, as well as the Springboks’ and Springbok Women’s matches against Scotland and the USA Eagles in Pretoria today,” the President said on Saturday.

READ | President Ramaphosa mourns the deaths of young sportsmen

In a post on social media platform X, Bafana Bafana said South African football mourns the loss of a talented player whose passion, dedication, and love for the beautiful game inspired many.

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, loved ones, teammates, and everyone affected by this devastating loss. May his soul rest in eternal peace. You will never be forgotten, Jayden,” said Bafana Bafana. –SAnews.gov.za

 

Neo

0

Posted on

President Ramaphosa mourns the deaths of young sportsmen

Source: Government of South Africa

President Ramaphosa mourns the deaths of young sportsmen

President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended condolences to the families of Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams and former South African Rugby Under-18 prop Luqobo Makwedini, following the announcement of their deaths on Saturday.

Adams, 25, who participated in Bafana Bafana’s matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, was found deceased at his Cape Town home.

Makwedini, 20, passed away after reportedly suffering cardiac arrest during a training session of his French-based rugby team.

“It is particularly tragic that we are suffering the loss of two outstanding young athletes at a time when our nation continues to immerse itself in the FIFA World Cup tournament, as well as the Springboks’ and Springbok Women’s matches against Scotland and the USA Eagles in Pretoria today,” the President said on Saturday.

The President said he was grateful for the “joy and victories Jayden and Luqobo have given us and their teams as they lived their dreams” and held South Africa’s name high on the scoreboards of global sport.

“May their souls rest in peace,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB

6

Posted on

La Kolwezi Fashion Week clôture une deuxième édition historique — et annonce l’émergence d’une nouvelle capitale de la mode au cœur de l’Afrique

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La Kolwezi Fashion Week (KZIFW) (www.KziFashionWeek.com) a clôturé sa deuxième édition, Héritage en Lumière, le 5 juillet, avec Fashion Talk, un panel de clôture consacré au rôle de la mode comme moteur de développement économique. Les échanges ont réuni créateurs, entrepreneurs, décideurs politiques et chefs d’entreprise autour de l’impact mesurable de la mode sur les économies locales, offrant une conclusion à la hauteur de l’une des productions culturelles les plus ambitieuses jamais organisées en République démocratique du Congo.

Du premier défilé, le 1er juillet, à la conversation de clôture du 5 juillet, la KZIFW a transformé Kolwezi — ville depuis longtemps reconnue pour les richesses enfouies dans son sous-sol — en une scène célébrant la créativité qui s’épanouit à sa surface. En cinq jours, créateurs de renommée internationale, jeunes talents congolais, acheteurs, journalistes, figures culturelles et visiteurs se sont réunis pour assister à un nouveau chapitre de la mode africaine.

Lors de la première édition, la Kolwezi Fashion Week s’est présentée au monde. Cette édition, à peine sept mois plus tard, l’a imposée comme l’une des plateformes de mode les plus ambitieuses du continent.

Une célébration de l’excellence africaine

La soirée d’ouverture a été délibérément confiée aux créateurs congolais Pero LM Africa, David Insilo, Kitendi Couture et Marc Yves Creation, dont les collections ont incarné la résilience, l’innovation et la confiance culturelle d’une nouvelle génération de la mode congolaise.

Le programme international qui a suivi a accueilli certains des noms les plus célèbres du continent, parmi lesquels Taibo Bacar (Mozambique), Danayi Madondo de Haus of Stone (Zimbabwe), Bouboucar Midaye de Mida Style (Mali) et Eric Raisina (Madagascar), confirmant l’ambition de la Kolwezi Fashion Week de devenir un point de rencontre de la création africaine.

Chaque défilé a été diffusé à l’échelle nationale via Télé 50, Mikuba TV et en livestream numérique, tandis que le partenaire beauté MAC Cosmetics assurait la direction artistique en coulisses tout au long de la semaine, imposant un niveau de production qui place Kolwezi aux côtés des capitales établies de la mode.

Le Fashion Village : la mode pour tous

Du 3 au 5 juillet, le Fashion Village a transformé la KZIFW en une célébration appartenant à la ville tout entière. Conçu comme un festival familial gratuit en marge du programme des défilés, il a rassemblé performances live, créateurs et artisans locaux, conférences pédagogiques, concours de création, activités pour enfants et expériences culturelles, reliant directement la mode à la communauté.

Bien plus qu’un festival, le Fashion Village est devenu un véritable marché de la créativité congolaise, offrant aux marques émergentes un accès direct aux consommateurs tout en créant de nouvelles opportunités de collaboration entre créateurs, artisans, médias et acheteurs internationaux.

En chiffres

La deuxième édition a accueilli plus de 1 600 invités, dont plus de 170 créateurs, journalistes et acheteurs internationaux ; elle a réuni 25 créateurs — dont 20 Congolais et 5 créateurs africains internationaux — et présenté 20 collections sur cinq jours de programmation. Le défilé d’ouverture à lui seul a touché environ 15 000 spectateurs en direct via la télévision nationale, la diffusion régionale et le livestream numérique, tandis que l’événement a généré plus de 5 millions de vues sur les réseaux sociaux au cours de la semaine, soulignant l’influence grandissante de la Kolwezi Fashion Week à travers l’Afrique et au-delà.

« Cette deuxième édition a prouvé qu’une mode de classe mondiale peut émerger de lieux que l’industrie a trop souvent négligés. Kolwezi devient un point de rencontre de la créativité panafricaine, où créateurs, artisans et visionnaires se réunissent pour façonner l’avenir de notre industrie. Notre ambition n’a jamais été simplement d’organiser une fashion week, mais de bâtir une institution qui crée des opportunités, transforme les communautés et inscrit durablement la mode congolaise sur la scène internationale », a déclaré Marie Natacha Masuka, fondatrice de la Kolwezi Fashion Week.

Un tissu qui raconte l’histoire de Kolwezi

L’un des moments forts de cette édition fut le dévoilement d’un tissu wax exclusif, conçu par la Kolwezi Fashion Week et développé en partenariat avec Wax Bazaar, une marque textile congolaise. Inspiré du paysage aérien des mines à ciel ouvert de Kolwezi, le motif transforme l’héritage minier de la ville en un récit textile contemporain. Ses bleus cobalt et ses roses éclatants évoquent les minerais qui ont placé la République démocratique du Congo au centre de la transition énergétique mondiale, tandis que ses verts malachite rendent hommage à un autre des trésors naturels du pays.

Ce tissu prolonge l’histoire amorcée avec le thème de l’an dernier, Extraction of Style, transformant le langage de l’extraction en celui de la création. Il a été dévoilé lors du défilé de clôture inclusif du festival, où la légendaire créatrice congolaise Fanny Mandina a partagé la scène avec de jeunes créateurs de Kolwezi, dont Kashal’Art, illustrant l’engagement de la Kolwezi Fashion Week à célébrer l’héritage tout en investissant dans la prochaine génération de talents congolais.

Fashion Talk : construire une industrie

La deuxième édition ne s’est pas achevée sur une fête, mais sur une conversation. Fashion Talk, le panel de clôture officiel, a réuni organisateurs, créateurs et chefs d’entreprise pour examiner l’impact économique mesurable de la mode — de la création d’emplois au tourisme, en passant par la fabrication et le développement industriel de long terme. Sa conclusion fut sans équivoque : la mode n’est pas un luxe ; c’est une industrie.

Cet impact était déjà visible tout au long de la semaine. La Kolwezi Fashion Week a généré plus de 300 emplois directs dans la production, la communication, l’hôtellerie, la beauté, le stylisme, la logistique et les opérations techniques, créant des opportunités pour des centaines de mannequins, artisans, photographes, techniciens et entrepreneurs locaux. À mesure que la plateforme se développe, elle devrait créer environ 100 emplois permanents, posant les fondations à la fois d’une industrie événementielle professionnelle et d’un écosystème de la mode florissant en République démocratique du Congo.

Mais l’ambition dépasse largement les cinq jours de l’événement. À travers la Fondation Marie Natacha Masuka, en partenariat avec le célèbre créateur congolais Papy Kaluw d’Urban Zulu, la Kolwezi Fashion Week contribue à l’établissement d’une industrie de la confection dans la région du Lualaba. En formant des jeunes et des femmes au patronage, à la couture et à la production de vêtements, l’initiative développe une main-d’œuvre qualifiée, soutient la capacité de fabrication locale et participe à la renaissance de long terme de l’industrie textile de la République démocratique du Congo. Ensemble, ces initiatives font de la mode non seulement une expression culturelle, mais un catalyseur de développement industriel, d’entrepreneuriat et de croissance économique durable.

Ce faisant, la Kolwezi Fashion Week continue de repositionner Kolwezi et la province du Lualaba comme une destination de créativité, de culture, d’innovation et de tourisme — et non plus seulement d’exploitation minière.

« Kolwezi a toujours donné au monde », ont déclaré les organisateurs. « Cette semaine, le monde est venu à Kolwezi et en est reparti avec une nouvelle image de qui nous sommes. C’est là l’héritage de cette édition, et le socle de la prochaine. »

Perspectives

La Kolwezi Fashion Week exprime sa gratitude à ses sponsors, partenaires, créateurs, bénévoles, partenaires de diffusion et partenaires beauté et, par-dessus tout, aux habitants de Kolwezi, dont la chaleur et l’hospitalité ont marqué la semaine autant que n’importe quelle collection sur le podium.

La préparation de la troisième édition débute immédiatement, la Kolwezi Fashion Week poursuivant sa mission : faire de la République démocratique du Congo l’une des grandes destinations africaines de la mode, de la créativité et de l’innovation culturelle.

  • Événement : Kolwezi Fashion Week (KZIFW), 2ᵉ édition — « Héritage en Lumière » 
  • Dates : 1er–5 juillet 2026 · Lieu : Kolwezi, province du Lualaba, République démocratique du Congo
  • Fondatrice : Marie Natacha Masuka
  • Créateurs internationaux à l’affiche : Taibo Bacar, Danayi Madondo (Haus of Stone), Bouboucar Midaye (Mida Style), Eric Raisina
  • Créateurs congolais de la soirée d’ouverture : Pero LM Africa, David Insilo, Kitendi Couture, Marc Yves Creation
  • Fashion Village (festival familial) : 3–5 juillet — artistes, créateurs locaux, concours et activités pour tous les âges
  • Événement de clôture : Fashion Talk — panel sur l’impact économique de la fashion week (5 juillet)
  • Partenaires de diffusion : Télé 50, Mikuba TV · Partenaire beauté : MAC Cosmetics
  • Invités internationaux : plus de 170 (créateurs, médias, acheteurs et figures culturelles)
  • Images haute résolution des défilés et demandes d’interview disponibles auprès du Bureau de presse

Distribué par APO Group pour Kolwezi Fashion Week.

Contact Presse : 
Kolwezi Fashion Week — Bureau de presse 
E-mail : info@kzifashionweek.com
Téléphone : +243 990 713 333 
Web : www.KziFashionWeek.com

À propos de la Kolwezi Fashion Week : 
La Kolwezi Fashion Week (KZIFW) est un événement de mode international annuel organisé à Kolwezi, en République démocratique du Congo. Fondée par Marie Natacha Masuka pour mettre en lumière les talents de la création congolaise et africaine, la KZIFW réunit créateurs, médias et acteurs de l’industrie autour d’un programme de plusieurs jours de défilés, d’expositions et d’expériences culturelles — inscrivant Kolwezi et la RDC sur la carte de la mode mondiale. La KZIFW est organisée par BEE Events Management LLC.

Media files

Posted on

Kolwezi Fashion Week closes a landmark second edition — and declares a new fashion capital rising in the heart of Africa

Source: APO

Kolwezi Fashion Week (KZIFW) (www.KziFashionWeek.com) concluded its second edition, Héritage en Lumière, on July 5 with Fashion Talk, a closing panel dedicated to the role of fashion as an engine for economic development. The discussion brought together designers, entrepreneurs, policymakers and business leaders to examine the measurable impact of fashion on local economies, marking a fitting conclusion to one of the most ambitious cultural productions ever staged in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

From the opening runway on July 1 to the closing conversation on July 5, KZIFW transformed Kolwezi—a city long recognized for the extraordinary wealth beneath its soil—into a stage for the creativity flourishing above it. Over five days, internationally acclaimed designers, emerging Congolese talent, buyers, journalists, cultural leaders and visitors gathered to witness a new chapter in African fashion.

Last edition, Kolwezi Fashion Week introduced itself to the world. This edition, just seven months later, it established itself as one of the continent’s most ambitious fashion platforms.

A Celebration of African Excellence

The opening night was deliberately entrusted to Congolese designers Pero LM Africa, David Insilo, Kitendi Couture, and Marc Yves Creation, whose collections embodied the resilience, innovation and cultural confidence of a new generation of Congolese fashion.

The international programme that followed welcomed some of Africa’s most celebrated names, including Taibo Bacar (Mozambique), Danayi Madondo of Haus of Stone (Zimbabwe), Bouboucar Midaye of Mida Style (Mali), and Eric Raisina (Madagascar), reinforcing Kolwezi Fashion Week’s ambition to become a meeting point for African creativity.

Every runway was broadcast nationally through Télé 50, Mikuba TV, and digital livestreaming, while beauty partner MAC Cosmetics led backstage artistry throughout the week, delivering a production standard that placed Kolwezi alongside established fashion capitals.

The Fashion Village: Fashion for Everyone

From July 3 to 5, the Fashion Village transformed KZIFW into a celebration belonging to the entire city. Conceived as a free family festival alongside the runway programme, it brought together live performances, local designers and artisans, educational talks, design competitions, children’s activities and cultural experiences that connected fashion directly with the community.

More than a festival, the Fashion Village became a marketplace for Congolese creativity, providing emerging brands with direct access to consumers while creating new opportunities for collaboration between designers, artisans, media and international buyers.

By the Numbers

The second edition welcomed more than 1,600 guests, including 170+ international designers, media and buyers; hosted 25 designers—including 20 Congolese and 5 international African designers—and presented 20 collections across five days of programming. The opening runway alone reached an estimated 15,000 live viewers through national television, regional broadcast and digital livestreaming, while the event generated more than 5 million social media views during the week, underscoring Kolwezi Fashion Week’s rapidly growing influence across Africa and beyond.

“This second edition proved that world-class fashion can emerge from places the industry has too often overlooked. Kolwezi is becoming a meeting point for pan-African creativity, where designers, artisans and visionaries come together to shape the future of our industry. Our ambition has never been simply to host a fashion week, but to build an institution that creates opportunities, transforms communities and firmly establishes Congolese fashion on the international stage,” said Marie Natacha Masuka, founder of Kolwezi Fashion Week.

A Fabric That Tells Kolwezi’s Story

One of the defining moments of this edition was the unveiling of an exclusive wax fabric conceived by Kolwezi Fashion Week and developed in partnership with Wax Bazaar, a Congolese textile brand. Inspired by the aerial landscape of Kolwezi’s open-pit mines, the design transforms the city’s mining heritage into a contemporary textile narrative. Its vibrant cobalt blues and pinks evoke the minerals that have positioned the Democratic Republic of the Congo at the centre of the global energy transition, while its malachite greens pay tribute to another of the country’s natural treasures.

The fabric continues the story begun with last year’s theme, Extraction of Style, transforming the language of extraction into one of creation. It debuted during the festival’s inclusive closing runway, where legendary Congolese designer Fanny Mandina shared the runway with emerging designers from Kolwezi, including Kashal’Art, illustrating Kolwezi Fashion Week’s commitment to celebrating heritage while investing in the next generation of Congolese talent.

Fashion Talk: Building an Industry

The second edition concluded not with a party, but with a conversation. Fashion Talk, the official closing panel, brought together organizers, designers and business leaders to examine the measurable economic impact of fashion—from job creation and tourism to manufacturing and long-term industrial development. Its conclusion was unequivocal: fashion is not a luxury; it is an industry.

That impact was already visible throughout the week. Kolwezi Fashion Week generated more than 300 direct jobs across production, communications, hospitality, beauty, styling, logistics and technical operations, creating opportunities for hundreds of local models, artisans, photographers, technicians and entrepreneurs. As the platform expands, it is projected to create approximately 100 permanent jobs, laying the foundations for both a professional event industry and a thriving fashion ecosystem in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

But the ambition extends far beyond the five-day event. Through the Marie Natacha Masuka Foundation, in partnership with renowned Congolese designer Papy Kaluw of Urban Zulu, Kolwezi Fashion Week is helping establish a garment manufacturing industry in the Lualaba region. By training young people and women in pattern-making, sewing and garment production, the initiative is developing a skilled workforce, supporting local manufacturing capacity and contributing to the long-term revival of the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s textile industry. Together, these initiatives position fashion not only as a cultural expression, but as a catalyst for industrial development, entrepreneurship and sustainable economic growth.

In doing so, Kolwezi Fashion Week continues to reposition Kolwezi and the Lualaba Province as a destination for creativity, culture, innovation and tourism, not only mining.

“Kolwezi has always given to the world,” organizers said. “This week, the world came to Kolwezi and left with a new picture of who we are. That is the legacy of this edition, and the foundation of the next.”

Looking Ahead

Kolwezi Fashion Week extends its gratitude to its sponsors, partners, designers, volunteers, broadcast partners, beauty partners and, above all, the people of Kolwezi, whose warmth and hospitality defined the week as much as any collection on the runway.

Planning for the third edition begins immediately, as Kolwezi Fashion Week continues its mission to establish the Democratic Republic of the Congo as one of Africa’s leading destinations for fashion, creativity and cultural innovation.

  • Event: Kolwezi Fashion Week (KZIFW), 2nd Edition — “Héritage en Lumière” (Heritage in the Spotlight)
  • Dates: July 1–5, 2026 · Location: Kolwezi, Lualaba Province, Democratic Republic of Congo
  • Founder: Marie Natacha Masuka
  • Headline designers: Taibo Bacar, Danayi Madondo (Haus of Stone), Bouboucar Midaye (Mida Style), Eric Raisina
  • Opening-night Congolese designers: Pero LM Africa, David Insilo, Kitendi Couture, Marc Yves Creation
  • Fashion Village family festival: July 3–5 — artists, local designers, competitions, and activities for all ages
  • Closing event: Fashion Talk — panel on the economic impact of fashion week (July 5)
  • Broadcast partners: Télé 50, Mikuba TV · Beauty partner: MAC Cosmetics
  • International guests: 170+ (designers, media, buyers, and cultural figures)
  • High-resolution runway imagery and interview requests available via the Press Office

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kolwezi Fashion Week.

Media Contact: 
Kolwezi Fashion Week — Press Office
Email: info@kzifashionweek.com
Phone: +243 990 713 333
Web: www.KziFashionWeek.com

About Kolwezi Fashion Week: 
Kolwezi Fashion Week (KZIFW) is an annual international fashion event held in Kolwezi, Democratic Republic of Congo. Founded by Marie Natacha Masuka to spotlight Congolese and African design talent, KZIFW brings together designers, media, and industry leaders for a multi-day program of runway shows, exhibitions, and cultural experiences — putting Kolwezi and the DRC on the map of global fashion. KZIFW is organized by BEE Events Management LLC.

Media files

.