KAMPALA, Uganda — The Uganda International Fashion Week has unveiled the 100 models selected to walk the runway during its upcoming showcase, scheduled for June 22-27 at the Kampala Serena Hotel.
The unveiling ceremony, held at Makerere University’s Africa Hall, brought together designers, creatives and industry enthusiasts for a first look at the faces defining this year’s runway.
The theme for this year’s edition is “Fashion for Impact,” highlighting the role of the industry as a driver of economic opportunity, cultural diplomacy, innovation and sustainability across Africa.
Supported by the Mastercard Foundation and implemented in partnership with the International Trade Centre and Bayimba Foundation, the program aims to empower young people aged 15 to 35, particularly women and girls, by creating pathways for employment, entrepreneurship and skills development.
Fashion entrepreneur Santa Anzo founded the event in 2003. Over the past two decades, it has grown into one of the continent’s prominent fashion platforms, connecting local talent to regional and international opportunities.
Organizers said more than 300 aspiring models responded to a nationwide casting call announced in April. Following a vetting process, 100 finalists were selected.
The models, aged 15 to 35, represent diverse cultural backgrounds across Uganda and other African countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Somalia, Eritrea, Sudan, Nigeria, Rwanda and Kenya.
Organizers emphasized inclusivity as a core pillar for the 2026 edition, noting that the selection includes refugees and persons with disabilities, including individuals with hearing and speech impairments.
“I was very happy when I learned that I had made it to the top 100,” said Victoria Adong, one of the selected models. “I was timid during the vetting process and thought I stood no chance. I want to use this opportunity to grow my career and brand so that one day I can walk for an international fashion house like Zara.”
For the past four weeks, the finalists have undergone intensive training under runway coach Lincoln Axarya to sharpen their skills and presentation.
“Uganda’s fashion industry has come a long way, and there is great potential for it to become a bigger contributor to the country’s economy,” Axarya said. “The young people are incredibly gifted and unique in their own ways. We believe they are fully prepared to deliver one of the best runway showcases Uganda has seen.”
During the unveiling, Anzo described the initiative as a platform for transformation and inclusion rather than just a runway event.
“Fashion is the second-biggest employer in Sub-Saharan Africa,” Anzo said. “We want every fabric showcased to contribute to dignified employment and sustainable income. UIFW is about empowering communities through fashion while ensuring that no one is left behind, including refugees and persons with disabilities.”
Anzo added that the initiative aims to transform the lives of 9,840 young people over the next three years by improving livelihoods and providing social, economic and mental empowerment.
The six-day event is expected to attract regional and international buyers, media and creative entrepreneurs, further positioning Uganda as a growing hub for cultural exchange and fashion.
