Kigali Fashion Week 2026 concluded on May 30 at Pinnacle Kigali, bringing together designers, models, investors, policymakers and fashion enthusiasts for a grand finale that showcased the growing potential of Rwanda’s fashion and creative industries.
The week-long event, held from May 25 to 30, featured runway shows, exhibitions, networking sessions and industry discussions aimed at positioning Rwanda as an emerging hub for fashion, creativity and entrepreneurship.
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One of the highlights of the closing event was a striking runway built inside a swimming pool, where models walked through water while showcasing collections from local and international designers. Guests were also treated to performances by renowned cultural musician Massamba Intore, whose set added a distinctly Rwandan touch to the evening.
Among the dignitaries in attendance was British High Commissioner to Rwanda Alison Thorpe, alongside prominent figures from the business and creative sectors.
Steve Samson, a Nigerian businessman and one of the event’s sponsors, said the return of Kigali Fashion Week underscored Rwanda’s creative potential and the importance of investing in young talent.
"Kigali Fashion Week was amazing. Reviving it after years of inactivity came with challenges, but seeing the excitement and joy it brought to people made it worthwhile,” Samson told The New Times.
"The biggest takeaway is that Rwanda has incredible talent. Our responsibility is to nurture that talent, especially among young people, and help the industry grow.”
Samson also paid tribute to Rwanda’s late Queen Rosalie Gicanda, explaining that the final fashion show will continue to honour her legacy.
"As I’ve said before, the final fashion show will always bear Queen Rosalie Gicanda’s name because she represents elegance through simplicity. Rwanda itself is a beautiful country with a unique story to tell,” he said.
He expressed confidence in the future of the fashion industry, noting that Rwanda’s cultural heritage and creative talent provide a strong foundation for growth.
"The future of fashion is bright, and its foundation is rooted in places like Rwanda,” he added.
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George Lugoloobi, Creative Producer of Kigali Fashion Week, said the event was designed not only to celebrate fashion but also to attract investment into the sector.
"The future of fashion in Rwanda is very promising. Through Kigali Fashion Week, we wanted investors to see the opportunities available in the industry, and I believe they have now seen the potential that exists,” he said.
Lugoloobi emphasized that stronger partnerships, collaboration and supportive policies will be essential to unlocking the sector’s full potential.
"We are beginning to see efforts to create policies that support people working in fashion. It’s not just about hosting fashion shows; it’s about creating value, jobs and sustainable opportunities. With continued collaboration, the industry will keep growing,” he said.
For many participants, the event was both demanding and rewarding. Models and designers spent the week balancing rehearsals, meetings and runway presentations while building valuable professional connections.
Model Nadine Uwiduhaye described the experience as an opportunity to learn, network and exchange creative ideas.
"It was a busy but exciting week. We met different people, learned new things and discovered a lot of creativity. I was particularly impressed by a Ugandan designer who created a beautiful dress inspired by a tree,” she said.
The closing ceremony also recognized designers, models and other contributors whose efforts helped make the event a success, including several first-time participants.
Organisers said Kigali Fashion Week reflects the growing momentum of Rwanda’s fashion industry and its potential to contribute to the country’s creative economy through innovation, investment and job creation.