The event further provided an update on preparations for the 4th edition of GIFW, scheduled for 10 to 17 November 2026 under the theme “Roots to Runway — Luxury Born in Gambia.” The official casting call will be held on 18 October 2026 at Arch 22 in Banjul.
Since its founding in 2023, GIFW has worked to create visibility, training, and opportunity for young Gambian designers, stylists, models, and other creatives. The platform aims to provide a concrete pathway to careers in fashion both locally and internationally.
GIFW Event Coordinator, Fatima Muloshi, said the initiative was founded by Ismaila Jallow as a non-profit platform to support and empower young talent.
“But GIFW is much more than a fashion show. Our vision is to create visibility, training and real career opportunities for young people who are passionate about fashion and creativity both here in The Gambia and internationally,” Muloshi said.
She said the goal is to ensure talent does not have to leave the country in search of opportunity. Through fashion, she added, young Gambians can develop skills, build businesses, create jobs and compete globally.
“In that sense, GIFW also represents an alternative pathway for young people who may otherwise feel that irregular migration is their only option for a better future,” she said.
This year’s edition, running from 10 to 17 November with the main shows on 14 and 15 November, will emphasise sustainability under three pillars: recycling, Made in Gambia, and positioning The Gambia on the international fashion map.
Muloshi said the recycling pillar encourages young people to transform waste into valuable products. The Made in Gambia pillar promotes local textile production and stronger links between farmers, artisans, designers and consumers.
“When we buy and promote products made in The Gambia, we are not simply buying fashion. We are supporting livelihoods. We are supporting businesses. And we are strengthening our economy,” she said.
The third pillar seeks to attract international designers, buyers, media and investors to see The Gambia as a destination for creativity and sustainable design.
Winners of this year’s competition will also get the opportunity to participate in a study trip to leading fashion universities for international exposure and training.
Sanna B. Jarju, Director of Literature and Performing Arts at NCAC, described the signing as a “stepping stone” to add value to the creative sector. He noted the importance of fashion and design in reflecting society’s needs and beauty, and said the sector is dynamic and driven by trends.
New Face of GIFW 2026, Matty Jobe, said she accepted the role with excitement and responsibility.
“Gambia International Fashion Week has created space for Gambian designers, models and creators in this industry to be seen, connected and given an opportunity to present their work to a wider audience,” Jobe said.
She said the theme “Roots to Runway — Luxury Born in Gambia” highlights the country’s craftsmanship, culture and stories.
“As the new face of Gambia International Fashion Week, I want to tell the story. I want to help be the voice behind the people, the designers and the creatives of this industry. There is room for all of us to succeed and to do that, we need to use connection instead of competition and support instead of division,” she said.
Jobe urged stakeholders to believe in Gambian fashion and build it together.
“From the roots to the runway, let's show the world what Gambia can do,” she said.
