The theme emphasises inter-generational storytelling through attire on how African clothes carry history, pride, and belonging. The event coordinator, David Letshwiti, has explained that unlike other cultural events, which focus more on traditional food and rural culture, African Attire on Fleek uniquely highlights how African fashion is a powerful language of identity, resistance, and unity, especially for younger generations navigating modernity. He also said the event was established in 2018 with the aim of celebrating and promoting African identity, pride, and cultural expression through fashion. “The event began as a platform for Batswana and Africans at large to showcase traditional wear in a modern, stylish context. The overwhelming response and enthusiasm from the public in the first edition inspired us to make it an annual celebration. It has since evolved into a vibrant cultural experience blending music, fashion, dance, and storytelling,” he said.
Just like most events locally, Letshwiti explained that they also experienced some challenges including venue limitations where suitable venues with capacity and infrastructure are hard to secure because of cost as well as funding constraints. The other challenge he pointed out is audience diversity with the earlier editions mainly attracting the youth. He explained that they expanded their marketing to appeal to families and older demographics too. Their achievements include consistent increase in attendance, growing online presence, recognition as one of Botswana’s premium cultural fashion events and lastly opportunities for local designers and models to network and grow. “African Attire on Fleek has largely fulfilled its mandate to promote African pride through fashion, inspire cultural pride among the youth, and support creative industries. The annual turnout, media coverage, and regional interest more especially from neighbouring countries like South Africa and Lesotho, shows the impact we are making. However, we remain committed to scaling up the event to reach broader international audiences,” Letshwiti added.
