Kenyan designer Stephen Maosa recently claimed the People’s Choice Award at the 10th Edition of the Africa Sourcing and Fashion Week (ASFW) in Addis Ababa.
Competing under the Real Leather, Stay Different (RLSD) category, Maosa’s innovative design—a versatile three-in-one travel bag—impressed judges and attendees alike.
Maosa’s award is a testament to the growing recognition of African talent and the push for sustainable fashion practices across the continent.
Themed “Redefining Fashion’s Environmental Footprint,” this year’s ASFW show held between November 8th to 11th put the spotlight on sustainable and ethical practices in the fashion industry.
It brought together leading African designers, industry experts, government representatives, and international stakeholders committed to promoting eco-conscious leather fashion.
The event, supported by the Leather & Hide Council of America (LHCA) and the Africa Leather and Leather Products Institute (ALLPI), attracted entries from across the continent, with 14 exceptional designers making the final cut.
Nicholas Mudungwe, ALLPI’s Executive Director, emphasized the importance of adding value to African leather products to bolster the continent’s global competitiveness.
Kerry Brozyna, President of LHCA, highlighted leather’s role as a sustainable by-product of the dairy and meat industries, offering an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic materials.
Other winners included Uganda’s Eddie Louis (Apparel Award), Ethiopia’s Ruth Girmay (Accessories and Most Commendable Designer Awards), and Zimbabwe’s Nompumelelo Marilyn Samambgwa (Footwear Award).
Each showcased piece adhered to the strict guidelines of using at least 50% cattle-hide leather, with a focus on natural or organic materials.
The use of fur, exotic skins, or endangered species was strictly prohibited, reinforcing the event’s commitment to sustainability.
