BY SIPHOSETHU MABUZA
MALKERNS – African fashion lovers are being challenged to become the heroes of their own stories as the Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival unveils “Kwasukasukela (Once Upon a Time)” as its official fashion theme for 2026.
Inspired by the timeless opening phrase used in siSwati folktales, the theme will transform the festival into a living showcase of African storytelling through fashion, creativity and cultural expression.
Organisers say the concept perfectly complements the festival’s overarching theme, “A Return to the African Future,” by encouraging designers and festival-goers to draw inspiration from Africa’s rich oral traditions, cultural symbols and historical narratives.
The result is expected to be a colourful fusion of heritage and innovation, where traditional motifs meet contemporary design.
Festival attendees are being encouraged to arrive with two carefully curated outfits that reflect personal stories, cultural legends and African identity. Designers are expected to experiment with woven textures, symbolic patterns, natural materials and creative interpretations of stories passed down through generations.
The centrepiece of the fashion programme will be the highly anticipated Luju Fashion Show, which will feature leading regional designers alongside emerging local talent on the Luju Runway Stage.
More significantly, Luju continues to position itself as a launchpad for Eswatini’s fashion industry.
The festival has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting local designers through mentorship, technical assistance, trade opportunities and media exposure. The initiative has become one of the country’s most important platforms for fashion entrepreneurs seeking regional recognition.
The annual Fashion Indaba will also return, bringing together designers, retailers, stylists, textile producers and industry stakeholders to discuss the future of fashion in Eswatini. Key discussions will focus on building a stronger value chain, addressing industry challenges and promoting sustainable production practices.
Industry observers believe the festival’s growing influence is helping to position fashion as a serious economic sector capable of generating employment and export opportunities.
With African fashion gaining global recognition, Luju’s emphasis on authentic storytelling and cultural pride could not be more timely.
As the countdown to August begins, one thing is clear: Luju 2026 will not simply be a fashion show. It will be a celebration of identity, imagination and the stories that continue to define Africa’s past, present and future.
