Ghana’s Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie has commended the country’s leading fashion designers – many of whom are the subject of regular global notice – for their contributions to the growth and promotion of the country’s fashion industry.
Speaking at this year’s Black Star Fashion Week in Accra, which brought together industry players and fashion enthusiasts, Gomashie described their work as instrumental in showcasing Ghana’s creative talent and cultural identity.
The Minister celebrated maestro Kofi Ansah for bringing “Ghanaian fashion to international attention,” as well as Oswald Boateng, whose heritage, she notes has been “reflected in his remarkable contribution to global menswear.”
Other names cited by Gomashie include Duaba Serwa, Pistis Ghana, House of Paon and Abrantie the Gentleman, all of whom “continue to demonstrate the possibilities of Ghanaian design”, as well as weavers, models, stylists, photographers and entrepreneurs behind the industry,
Gomashie’s statement coincides with an announcement by Black Star Experience coordinator Rex Omar that his outfit will be rolling out an award scheme to recognise and honour pioneering names across Ghana’s fashion industry.
“These are individuals who have contributed immensely to where we are today, often without the recognition they deserve,” he said at the event. “Their stories must be told, their contributions celebrated and their legacies preserved for future generations.”
Meanwhile, the minister has encouraged emerging creators to draw from the accomplishments of their predecessors, charging them to be bold and innovative in their designs.
“To our emerging designers and young creatives, I encourage you to study the achievements of these pioneers but never be afraid to develop your own distinctive voices. The next internationally recognised fashion house could emerge from any part of Ghana.”
She added: “Ghana has several competitive advantages: a rich cultural heritage, internationally recognised indigenous textiles, a talented and youthful population, a growing creative ecosystem and a strong connection to the African diaspora. We must leverage these advantages to attract international fashion houses, investors, buyers, fashion journalists and tourists.
“Black Star Fashion Summit is precisely the kind of platform that can help us achieve this ambition.”
The Black Star Fashion Week offers a melting pot for various players in the country’s fashion value chain, driving innovation and key industry conversations. It continues on November 7 at the Royal Senchi Hotel in Akosombo with The Presidential Runway showcase.