Burundi Recycled Fashion Show Puts Plastic Waste on the Runway
Summary
A Burundi recycled fashion show, the Kamenge Drop, has given twelve young designers a runway for outfits made from plastic waste and discarded mosquito nets. It was held at the Kamenge Youth Centre in Bujumbura after a ten-day training programme led by designer Manuela Minka during Green Diplomacy Week.
Key Highlights
- Twelve young designers took part in the ten-day training programme.
- Their outfits were made from plastic waste and discarded mosquito nets.
- Designer and artist Manuela Minka led the programme.
- Participants say the work showed them that waste can earn money.
What Happened?
The Kamenge Drop took place at the Kamenge Youth Centre in northern Bujumbura. Before it, Minka coached the twelve designers to build their own collections, and the runway show was the programme’s highlight. Participants learned to make outfits from materials that are normally thrown away.
Why is it Important?
Despite several initiatives, waste recycling in Burundi is still not widely developed. Minka’s approach is to change how people look at rubbish. She says a bottle or a piece of waste can be transformed once it is seen differently, and that “we must take care of our mother, the Earth.” The Burundi recycled fashion show gives that idea a public stage.
Impact and Implications
For the participants, the lesson was practical as well as environmental. Arsène Irakoze, one of the designers, said turning such materials into other objects can bring in income. Many have also come to see waste differently, according to the report. Some young people in the audience felt inspired to make something beautiful from what is usually discarded, and a few could imagine careers in fashion. The report gives no figures on how far that interest goes.
What Happens Next?
Africanews does not say whether the Kamenge Drop will return, or whether the training will be offered to more young people. Anyone interested in joining a future programme would need to ask the Kamenge Youth Centre directly.
