Kibonen, the groundbreaking African fashion brand renowned for seamlessly blending traditional African aesthetics with contemporary global trends, made waves at New York Fashion Week (NYFW) with its latest collection, Nduop Chronicles. Paying homage to the Bamileke people of Cameroon, the collection was a masterful display of heritage textiles reimagined in modern silhouettes, a testament to the brand’s dedication to honour its roots while embracing cutting-edge design.
CNN Shines a Spotlight on African Fashion
In what can be described as a watershed moment for African fashion, CNN followed the journey of Kibonen and two other African brands throughout NYFW February 2025, capturing the essence of their creative processes, craftsmanship, and cultural significance. This unprecedented coverage not only highlighted the innovation and artistry of African designers but also signified a shift in the fashion industry’s recognition of African luxury beyond its historically exoticised perception.
“For years, African designers have fought for a seat at the table. It is still very heartbreaking, the challenges we still face, but this moment honours our resilience, creativity, and the global demand for authentically African fashion,” said Kibonen Nfi, the visionary founder behind the brand. “This feature opens doors not just for Kibonen but for an entire generation of designers who are ready to take African fashion to new heights.”
The recognition by CNN marks a significant turning point, affirming Kibonen’s place on the world stage and underscoring the economic and cultural potential of Africa’s burgeoning creative economy.
Resonance Collaboration: A New Era in Fashion Production
A key factor behind the success of Nduop Chronicles is also Kibonen’s partnership with Resonance, a pioneering fashion technology and supply chain company. This collaboration empowers designers with sustainable, on-demand production models, data-driven decision-making, and ethical manufacturing practices.
Through Resonance, Kibonen is redefining fashion consumption by offering an interactive shopping experience where customers can personalise styles, fabrics, and colours while reducing waste. This tech-driven approach is revolutionising the industry by eliminating the inefficiencies of traditional mass production, placing Kibonen at the forefront of the sustainable fashion movement.
A Legacy of Innovation and Impact
Kibonen has further cemented its status as a trailblazer in contemporary African fashion. With multiple showcases at NYFW, an invitation to present at Buckingham Palace, and a growing roster of high-profile clientele—including Lupita Nyong’o, Gayle King, Justine Skye, Samuel Eto’o, and Miss Cameroon—the brand continues to elevate African fashion on the global stage.
Its impact also extends beyond design; Kibonen has been instrumental in shaping the African fashion ecosystem. As a co-founder of the African Fashion Council and a mentor to emerging talent, the brand plays a pivotal role in building the next generation of designers.
Kibonen has a presence in both the U.S. and African markets and is ready to expand further, opening a flagship boutique in Douala Mall. This new chapter reinforces its mission to revolutionise the African fashion industry while bringing authentic, innovative designs to a global audience.
CNN’s documentary feature solidifies Kibonen’s influence and the broader movement of African designers claiming their rightful place in the global fashion landscape. As the industry evolves, Kibonen stands as a beacon of creativity, and the future of African luxury.
