Former President John Dramani Mahama has announced his intention to make a landmark appearance on the runway during Ghana Fashion Week in July 2025, aiming to spotlight locally made fashion and uplift Ghanaian designers.
Speaking at the launch of the Black Star Experience, a cultural and tourism initiative held in Accra on May 1, Mahama reaffirmed his dedication to supporting indigenous fashion. “When Ghana Fashion Week comes around in July, I will personally grace the runway,” he said to enthusiastic applause. Mahama, long recognized for wearing Ghanaian-made clothing, revealed he would showcase three different outfits, each created by local designers and credited during his appearance. “My clothes are always made in Ghana. Even my political suits are tailored by Ghanaians. This is a collective celebration,” he stated.
This announcement reflects Mahama’s continued commitment to strengthening Ghana’s fashion and textile industries, sectors he views as essential to job creation and cultural identity. His planned runway walk is being lauded as a first for a Ghanaian leader and is expected to shine a global spotlight on the country’s fashion scene.
Fashion Week organizers have praised the move as a major endorsement for the industry, anticipating that the president’s involvement will boost visibility and inspire greater support for local creatives. Mahama’s presence also draws attention to the challenges facing the textile industry, such as competition from inexpensive imports and illicit trade. By donning and promoting Ghana-made apparel, he aims to encourage policy shifts favoring local artisans and fostering industry growth.
Mahama’s fashion-forward approach mirrors similar efforts by leaders like Rwanda’s Paul Kagame, who champions Made-in-Rwanda initiatives. However, Mahama’s active participation in a fashion show goes a step further, merging cultural promotion with economic advocacy. While some critics question the optics of a political figure on the runway, others applaud the move as a creative strategy to empower a vibrant yet underfunded sector.
With Ghanaian designers such as Christie Brown and Duaba Serwa gaining international recognition, Mahama’s involvement may help accelerate momentum for the fashion industry—especially if it leads to stronger investment and policy backing. As July nears, both the fashion community and the public eagerly await the event, viewing it as a bold statement of pride in Ghanaian creativity and enterprise.
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FAQs – John Mahama’s Participation in Ghana Fashion Week 2025
1. Is it confirmed that John Mahama will walk the runway?
Yes. Former President Mahama publicly announced during the launch of the Black Star Experience on May 1, 2025, that he will take part in Ghana Fashion Week this July.
2. Why is he participating in a fashion show?
Mahama aims to celebrate and promote Ghanaian fashion by wearing and showcasing outfits from local designers. It is a symbolic gesture to uplift the local textile and fashion industries.
3. Will he model clothing from multiple designers?
Yes. He stated he will wear three different outfits, each created by different Ghanaian designers, giving credit to each during the show.
4. Is this the first time a Ghanaian leader is doing this?
Yes. This will be the first time a high-profile Ghanaian political figure has walked the runway, making it a historic event.
5. What message is Mahama trying to send with this appearance?
He wants to reinforce the importance of supporting “Made-in-Ghana” products, highlight the economic potential of the creative industry, and call for policy support to protect and grow local fashion businesses.
6. How will this benefit the fashion industry?
The increased attention could lead to greater visibility, investor interest, international exposure, and policy conversations that benefit designers, tailors, and artisans.
7. Is the event open to the public?
Yes, Ghana Fashion Week typically allows public access through ticketing, and this year’s event is expected to draw large audiences due to Mahama’s participation.
8. Are there other political leaders who have done something similar?
Not in Ghana, but leaders like Paul Kagame of Rwanda have championed local industries. However, Mahama’s direct runway involvement is unprecedented and more visually symbolic.
9. What is the Black Star Experience?
It is a cultural and tourism campaign aimed at promoting Ghana’s creative sectors, heritage, and investment opportunities.
10. How can local designers participate or get involved?
Designers can contact Ghana Fashion Week organizers for application and participation details. Those selected will have the chance to showcase their work and possibly design for high-profile figures like Mahama.
