Smirnoff Hosts The Tanzania Fashion Festival 2024
On September 28, 2024, the Terrace Lounge at Slipway in Dar es Salaam became a fashionista's dreamscape, all thanks to the electrifying Tanzania Fashion Festival 2024, hosted by Smirnoff. As the sun set, casting a warm glow over the venue, the excitement in the air was palpable, with guests arriving to a meticulously crafted space adorned with colorful backdrops, a red carpet, and the standout "Choose Your Style" wall, where attendees could pick from Smirnoff's Yellow Pineapple, Blue Guarana, or Black Ice variants, adding a personal touch to their evening.
The festival’s centerpiece, a runway floating over the hotel's pool, was a jaw-dropping spectacle that elevated the event's visual appeal. Models glided elegantly over the water, their reflections shimmering beneath them, creating an unforgettable fashion showcase. The audacious design of this water-top runway set a dramatic and sophisticated tone for the night, captivating the audience and transforming the traditional catwalk experience.


Smirnoff, the main sponsor, made sure guests were well-refreshed with signature cocktails throughout the evening, complementing the evening’s theme of "Smirnoff's Night to Remember". The festive atmosphere was alive with fashion, creativity, and style, as guests enjoyed the show while sipping their drinks.
Deogratius Kithama, founder of the Tanzania Fashion Festival, expressed the event’s core mission to elevate Tanzanian fashion on both national and international stages. This year’s festival featured over 20 designers who brought a diverse array of styles to life, from avant-garde designs pushing the boundaries of fashion to collections that blended contemporary trends with traditional Tanzanian elements. Each piece told a unique story, celebrating Tanzania's rich cultural heritage while embracing modernity.
Standout collections included beachwear and casual wear, perfectly suited for Tanzania's tropical climate. Designers creatively used local textiles, incorporating traditional patterns into wearable pieces, while men’s collections offered sharp tailoring and bold prints that defied conventional norms. The models, adorned in intricate garments and accessories, gracefully navigated the floating runway, adding to the festival's allure.



Adding to the vibrant atmosphere was a performance by Tanzanian singer Saraphina Michael, known as Phina, whose energetic set provided the perfect rhythmic backdrop to the fashion showcase, further connecting Tanzania's music and fashion scenes.

Now in its 7th edition since its inception in 2018, the Tanzania Fashion Festival continues to grow as one of East Africa’s most anticipated fashion events. With its innovative floating runway and immersive experience, the 2024 edition set a new standard for fashion events in the region, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.