# Bold Fashion Week debuts in Kampala

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/bold-fashion-week-launch-in-kampala
> Updated: 2026-08-23T14:23:00.000Z. Sources: 9. Developments: 3.

In August 2026, the inaugural Bold Fashion Week was launched through a partnership between Johnnie Walker, Bold in Africa, and Malembe Lifestyle. Scheduled for August 21–22 at Motiv in Bugolobi, the event serves as an extension of the Johnnie Walker Afro Exchange platform, intended to facilitate cultural exchange across music, fashion, and art.

The showcase aims to celebrate contemporary African fashion by providing an ecosystem for designers to connect with markets and buyers. The event features ten African designers, including a mix of international talent, established Ugandan labels, and emerging designers.

Following its debut on August 21, the event—held in partnership with I&M Bank—focused on the commercial potential and sustainability of the African fashion sector. The runway showcased several Ugandan brands, such as Axarya, Discreet Street x Local, Good Fibre, Joan Jade, Kifahari, Kwesh, Lamara, Ofumbi, and Shurea Yasmin, alongside Nigerian designer Yemi Shoyemi.

Lincoln Axarya noted that the rise in such platforms indicates an industry “evolving into a profitable commercial sector.” Additionally, I&M Bank expressed support for the initiative, viewing the creative sector as a “catalyst for entrepreneurship” and a significant contributor to Africa’s expanding economy.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-23: Bold Fashion Week debuts to highlight African fashion business

The debut of Bold Fashion Week in Kampala highlighted the growing commercial importance and entrepreneurial potential of the African fashion industry.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bold-fashion-week-debuts-to-highlight-african-fashion-business

### 2026-08-20: Bold Fashion Week to launch in Kampala through new partnership

Johnnie Walker, Bold in Africa, and Malembe Lifestyle will partner to host the inaugural Bold Fashion Week in Kampala in August 2026, showcasing ten African designers.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bold-fashion-week-to-launch-in-kampala-through-new-partnership

### 2026-08-02: Speedball Summer 2026 fashion showcase in Kampala draws youth and Guinness partnership

Speedball Summer 2026 in Kampala combined streetwear, live orchestra and audience‑designed outfits, backed by Guinness Smooth’s Make It Yours campaign.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/speedball-summer-2026-fashion-showcase-in-kampala-draws-youth-and-guinness-partnership

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Cite as: Bold Fashion Week debuts in Kampala. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/bold-fashion-week-launch-in-kampala