Italian Ambassador to Tanzania, Giuseppe Sean Coppola
DAR ES SALAAM; Dec 4 (NNN-DAILYNEWS) — Italy has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening cultural and economic relations with Tanzania through the Swahili Fashion Week and Awards.
Italian Ambassador to Tanzania, Giuseppe Sean Coppola, emphasized this commitment during a press conference in Dar es Salaam, where he announced the Embassy’s support for the 17th edition of the Swahili Fashion Week and Awards.
The renowned cultural event, scheduled for Dec 6–8 at Parthenon Hall in Dar es Salaam, will celebrate African creativity under the theme, “Discover What Makes Africa Beautiful.”
Coppola highlighted the collaboration between the Italian Embassy, the Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana, and Tanzanian designers as a vital platform for cultural exchange and economic empowerment.
“This event not only showcases the incredible talents of designers but also provides opportunities for them to earn livelihoods and contribute to the national economy,” he said.
Acting Director of the National Arts Council (BASATA), Edward Buganga, echoed these sentiments, noting that Swahili Fashion Week promotes Kiswahili culture, enhances employment opportunities, and strengthens Tanzania’s economy.
“Through this platform, art flourishes as a business while preserving and showcasing Tanzania’s traditions,” Buganga said.
Founder and CEO of Swahili Fashion Week, Mustafa Hassanali, urged young designers and models to seize the opportunities offered by the event.
“Have the courage and readiness to showcase your talents. This platform connects you to international markets and promotes the ‘Made in Africa’ initiative,” he said.
This year’s event also aligns with the campaign for clean cooking energy, supporting President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s efforts toward environmental sustainability. Designers will present collections crafted from sustainable materials and ethical production techniques, emphasizing the role of creativity in fostering social and environmental change.
The three-day showcase will feature over 40 local and international designers, including Dida (Italy), Iterik (Uganda), and Kushweet (Kenya), alongside Tanzanian talents such as Reen Fashion Flair (Morogoro) and M2MOKO (Zanzibar).
The awards ceremony will celebrate excellence in 27 categories, with Nexia Tanzania ensuring a transparent voting process. — NNN-DAILYNEWS
