When I got the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to travel to Rwanda this past January, I wasn’t expecting to discover some of the most beautiful, vibrant, handmade clothing and accessories I had ever seen. Yet here I am with three new handmade bags from Rwanda and a newfound fascination with different fashion cultures and authentic craftsmanship found all over the globe.
Tourism and Fashion Industry Growth in Rwanda
Nicknamed the heart of Africa for its geographic location within the contentment, Rwanda captures the hearts of roughly 1 million visitors every year with its growing tourism sector and Visit Rwanda initiative. With guided safaris in the east, gorilla sightings in Volcanoes National Park, city life in the capital city of Kigali, and a rapidly growing fashion industry. Rwanda should be on everyone’s bucket list.
Lucabella Ralph, 2024
Being only thirty years out from the country’s devastating genocide, the country strives to unify and empower the people of the nation. “The Made in Rwanda Policy aims to increase economic competitiveness by enhancing Rwanda’s domestic market through value chain development”. This policy has been a large component in the growing fashion market and aims to continue to help Rwandan designers and local artisans grow within the country and abroad. Additionally, the multi-million-dollar Inzovu Mall is underway in Kigali and is expected to be completed in September 2025. The mall is a significant step in the continued growth of the country’s fashion industry and overall economic prosperity.
Made in Rwanda
There is an abundance of creativity and care put into the handmade designs produced by the talented and kind people of Rwanda. The most recognizable elements of these designs are the intricate fabrics used to create an array of dresses, bags, and other accessories. There is no shortage of colors, patterns, and design variations. Every piece is truly something special.
Read more about African Wax Print Fabric
Lucabella Ralph, 2024
Pictured above are some of the fabric prints and designs you can find throughout the country. There is a vast variety of adult and children’s clothes, tote bags and purses, home and kitchen accessories, and headbands. Apart from the sewn items you can also find intricately hand woven and beaded bags. These designs are unlike anything you will find back home. Every item tells a story and buying one supports the Rwandan locals who are passionate about what they do. Additionally, most of the designs and shops are made and owned by women. It was so special to learn from the people of Rwanda and witness their passion for what they create.
Rwanda is filled with beauty of all forms and its artistry deserves to be shared with the world.
Lucabella Ralph, 2024