Hub of Africa Fashion Week (HAFW) returns to Addis Ababa from January 13–17, 2026, marking its 15th anniversary as one of the continent’s most influential fashion platforms. Hosted at the Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa, this year’s edition celebrates African creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation, bringing together designers, creatives, and industry leaders from across Africa and beyond.
Produced in partnership with NZ Communications, the 2026 event features a dynamic program blending fashion showcases, exhibitions, and thought-leadership sessions. The week opens with a luxury leather exhibition by SAMRA Leather, setting the tone for refined craftsmanship and premium African design.
Over its 15-year journey, HAFW has built a vital platform for emerging and established designers, fostering international visibility and industry growth. The event continues its collaboration with Waridi Schrobsdorff, Founder of Fashion Africa 254, who serves as strategic partner and board advisor, strengthening HAFW’s sustainability and global positioning efforts.
From January 15–16, the runway will spotlight a curated selection of designers from Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Cameroon, and Russia. Audiences can expect show-stopping collections from influential names such as Naked Ape, MAFI MAFI, Mantsho, and Ejiro Amos Tafari, among others reshaping contemporary African fashion.
HAFW 2026 also continues its partnership with the British Council under the Creative DNA (CDNA) 3.0 Programme, empowering 10 emerging designers with international exposure and business development support. Their collections will be showcased on January 15, emphasizing the platform’s commitment to nurturing creative entrepreneurship across Africa.
Beyond the runway, HAFW 2026 focuses on dialogue and industry development. The event features The Core Round Table Talk, hosted by Linda Murithi, founder of The Core Fashion Kenya and The Fashion Tour, providing a collaborative space for 15 key stakeholders to explore the future of African fashion, sustainability, and international partnerships. The week concludes with The Fashion Tour, where participants will visit key design houses and creative hubs across Addis Ababa.
An international public relations expert from the UK will also join this year’s edition, helping participating designers refine brand narratives, enhance media engagement, and expand their international reach.
