Africa Sourcing and Fashion Week Nairobi 2025 Concludes with Strong International Turnout and Growing Industry Impact

Nairobi, Kenya — Africa Sourcing and Fashion Week (ASFW) Nairobi 2025 wrapped up its three-day showcase on April 26, leaving behind a trail of international enthusiasm, burgeoning industry collaborations, and a clear signal of East Africa’s rising prominence in the global textile, leather, and fashion sectors. This year’s edition, marked by impressive participation from across the globe, reaffirmed Nairobi’s position as the continent’s leading sourcing hub for fashion and manufacturing.

A Record-Breaking Turnout Reflects Growing Global Interest

The 2025 edition of ASFW drew an astonishing 3,035 visitors from 55 nations, marking a significant increase in international engagement compared to previous years. Attendees included top-tier buyers, investors, and brand representatives from Europe, North America, Asia, and Africa. The event hosted 155 exhibitors representing 22 countries, showcasing the best of East Africa’s textile, leather, and apparel industries.

Skander Negasi, CEO of Trade and Fairs Group and organizer of ASFW, expressed his satisfaction with this year’s success:

"I am not only proud of having exhibitors from over 20 countries and the overall growth of the event, but even more about the international quality of attendance we have this year. We saw important brands and chains such as Sainsbury’s, Calvin Klein, among others, present at the event. This demonstrates that ASFW Nairobi is becoming a key sourcing destination for global brands, and I am confident it will continue to grow stronger in the years ahead."

Government Support and Industry Development Initiatives

The event was also a platform for high-level support from the Kenyan government. Dr. Juma Mukhwana, Principal Secretary at the State Department for Industry, reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to fostering a vibrant textile and fashion sector:

"ASFW and its organizers have the full support of the Ministry. The event creates real value for our country by generating jobs, promoting investments, and positioning Kenya as a major player on the international market."

Recognizing the importance of skills development, Dr. Esther Muoria, Principal Secretary at the State Department for Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET), highlighted the need for increased training opportunities:

"To ensure our youth are highly skilled and competitive, we must expand training initiatives. ASFW offers an excellent platform for stakeholders to come together and make this vision a reality."

Partnerships and International Collaboration Drive Growth

ASFW’s expanding international profile was further reinforced through strategic partnerships. The European Union-funded EU–East African Community (EAC) MARKUP II programme, in collaboration with the International Trade Centre (ITC), facilitated the participation of 17 leather businesses from Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and South Sudan specializing in footwear and accessories. These regional delegations, alongside business support organizations and institutional partners, gained invaluable exposure and new avenues for business development.

Cennydd Williams, an advisor to Gatsby Africa and official partner of ASFW Nairobi 2025, commented on the event’s growing stature:

"Our goal was to establish ASFW as the leading sourcing platform for textiles and leather industries within Africa. Seeing the level of engagement from buyers and investors this year — which is noticeably better than last — confirms that we are on the right track."

The African Leather and Leather Products Institute (ALLPI) sponsored eight leather companies, providing them with international exposure. Additionally, country pavilions from Ethiopia and Turkey showcased high-end garments aimed at both African and global markets, further emphasizing the region’s increasing competitiveness and creativity.

A Platform for Industry Growth and Future Prospects

The success of ASFW Nairobi 2025 underscores its vital role in shaping East and Central Africa’s textile, apparel, and leather industries. The event’s international participation and high-quality engagement signal a bright future, attracting global brands seeking reliable sourcing partners and regional manufacturers eager to expand their reach.

Looking ahead, organizers announced the dates for next year’s edition: April 30 to May 2, 2026. Industry stakeholders and international buyers are already marking their calendars for what promises to be another impactful gathering.

About Africa Sourcing & Fashion Week Nairobi (ASFW)

ASFW Nairobi stands as East and Central Africa’s premier event dedicated to fashion, sustainability, and innovation. It brings together leading international buyers, investors, brands, and retail leaders with Africa’s top fashion and manufacturing players. The event provides an invaluable platform to discuss sourcing strategies, explore market challenges, and identify future growth opportunities within the continent. As a key industry event, ASFW Nairobi continues to foster regional development, promote investment, and elevate Africa’s position in the global fashion supply chain.

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As the industry continues to evolve, ASFW Nairobi remains committed to driving innovation, fostering collaborations, and unlocking Africa’s vast potential in textiles, leather, and fashion. The future looks promising for East Africa’s dynamic industry landscape.