The debut Tranoi Tokyo trade show, held from September 4-5, spotlighted the dynamic spirit of African fashion through Afrexim bank’s Canex Presents Africa initiative. Ten distinguished brands from Africa and the diaspora showcased their designs, promoting African creativity on a global stage.
Among the featured brands was Vanhu Vamwe from Zimbabwe, known for its luxury handcrafted heirlooms that merge traditional crafts with modern innovation. Trinidad and Tobago’s The Cloth, established in 1986 by Robert Young, also participated, alongside Nigeria’s Shekudo, originally a women’s clothing brand that transitioned to footwear and accessories in 2017.
Other notable participants included Egypt’s Dina Shaker, focused on elevating personal style, and Kenya’s Adele Dejak, renowned for its luxury fashion jewellery blending contemporary design with traditional craftsmanship. Katush, also from Kenya, explores perceptions of history and culture through fashion, while Tunisia’s Anissa Aida draws inspiration from both Tunisian heritage and Japanese craftsmanship.
Judy Sanderson, a Portugal-based ready-to-wear brand by South African designer Judy Sanderson, joined the showcase along with Ethiopia’s ethical casual wear brand Fozia Endrias and Nigeria’s sustainable fashion brand Emmy Kasbit.
Kanayo Awani, Afrexim bank’s Executive Vice President, emphasized the Bank’s strategy to promote African creatives by connecting them with international buyers, investors, and industry stakeholders. She encouraged participation in Canex Wknd 2024 in Algiers, set for October 16-19, as a significant platform for collaboration and business development.
Tranoi Tokyo attracted 3,499 visitors over two days, with 170 avant-garde brands presenting their Spring/Summer 2025 collections to buyers from Japan, Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, and China.
Afrexim bank’s Canex initiative continues to provide African designers with access to global markets and sustainable growth opportunities.
