By Burnett Munthali
Malawi’s fashion industry is stepping into the spotlight with the launch of Creative DNA Malawi, a project aimed at highlighting the country’s rich cultural aesthetics through innovative design.
Vice President Dr. Jane Ansah graced the occasion, signaling the government’s recognition of the creative sector as a potential driver of economic growth and youth empowerment.
The initiative, founded by celebrated designer Lily Alfonso, seeks to provide a platform for local designers to showcase their talent, gain mentorship, and attract both local and international opportunities.
Supported by the British Council, Creative DNA Malawi is designed to bridge gaps in infrastructure, funding, and exposure that have long hindered the growth of Malawi’s fashion industry.
Alfonso, addressing the audience, emphasized that Malawi is home to an untapped reservoir of creative talent capable of transforming the nation’s economy if properly supported.
She called on private sector players and policymakers to invest in fashion, describing it not only as an art form but as a practical tool for entrepreneurship, job creation, and cultural preservation.
Highlighting the challenges faced by designers, Alfonso pointed to limited exhibition spaces, lack of financial support, and insufficient training opportunities as barriers that the project aims to overcome.
Vice President Ansah commended the initiative, noting that Creative DNA Malawi offers young people a chance to turn their creativity into sustainable livelihoods while simultaneously promoting Malawi’s cultural identity.
She encouraged partnerships among designers, institutions, and investors to build a robust creative ecosystem that nurtures innovation and ensures the long-term viability of the fashion sector.
Dr. Ansah concluded by stressing that supporting creative industries like fashion is critical not just for economic diversification, but also for inspiring confidence, showcasing Malawi on a global stage, and empowering the next generation of innovators.
