Supported project
Création Botswana
Sectors :
Fashion
Countries :
Botswana
Création Botswana is an innovative fashion entrepreneurship programme designed to empower and promote the creative industries in Botswana.
Project starting date : September 01, 2024
Project end date : October 31, 2025
A project led by: :
Alliance Française de Gaborone (AFG)
Contexte
Rooted in the belief that fashion is both a cultural expression and a powerful driver of economic growth, this initiative provides emerging and established designers with the tools, resources and international networks they need to thrive in a competitive market.
In 2024, a national campaign selected 28 Botswana entrepreneurs and designers in the fashion sector. From January to October 2025, the programme consisted of:
• four training workshops in Gaborone led by 14 international experts;
• two study trips (in April to Johannesburg and in France, to Paris and Montpellier, from 29 September to 12 October);
• individualised support (international mentoring and technical monitoring) and grants conditional on a validated start-up plan;
• closing events (pitch competition, pop-up market, 14 July fashion show at the Ambassador's residence).
Goals
Launched in September 2024, Création Botswana supports the structuring of the fashion industry in Botswana by strengthening the economic models of its players. It is the first deliverable of the Gaborone Declaration, signed during Ms. Chrysoula Zacharopoulou's visit in April 2024, which provides for enhanced cooperation in the agriculture, digital and cultural and creative industries (CCI) sectors.
Expected results
- Création Botswana promotes fashion as a key sector for economic diversification and creative excellence in the country. This programme focuses on developing entrepreneurial skills, creative mentoring, and regional and international exposure.
- two press conferences, a roadshow in seven cities across the country, media tours and an active presence on social media.
Connecting local talent with global expertise
Communication has been a cornerstone of the programme:
Finally, beyond its role in coordinating the programme, the Alliance Française in Gaborone played a central role in implementing the programme by hosting most of the training workshops on its premises.
Partners
Absa Bank Botswana
Alliance Française de Gaborone (AFG)
French Embassy in Botswana
Lucara Botswana
National Arts Council of Botswana (NACB)
Subscribe to our newsletter!
Receive monthly updates from the Création Africa platform.