Africa’s fashion industry is booming, UNESCO says in new report but funding remains a key challenge

By CHINEDU ASADU
Associated Press

ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) — A new UNESCO report released at this year’s Lagos Fashion Week notes that Africa’s fashion industry is rapidly growing to meet local and international demands but a lack of adequate investment continues to limit its full potential. The continent’s fashion industry _ valued at $15.5 billion worth of exports annually _ also has proven to be “a powerful lever for the promotion of cultural diversity,” according to UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay, who launched the organization’s first report on fashion in Africa in Nigeria’s economic hub of Lagos. The annual Lagos Fashion Week show features a mix of designers from across the continent and celebrates local fashion brands in the continent.