CITIES AND MAYORS

Local Leadership for Global Impact

AFWA 2025 goes beyond the runway—it's a forum for city diplomacy, public-private collaboration, and sustainable development. We actively engage mayors, municipal leaders, port authorities, and urban development agencies from Africa and Europe to co-create solutions at the intersection of creative economy, coastal resilience, and the Blue Economy.

As climate change and economic transformation reshape our urban landscapes, cities play a critical role in driving inclusive growth. AFWA invites coastal cities to showcase their innovations, build global partnerships, and explore the potential of creative industries to boost local economies and strengthen cultural identity.

Why Cities Should Join

AFWA 2025 creates a unique space for cities to:

• Participate in policy dialogues and summit sessions with international peers

• Sign or expand city-to-city cooperation agreements (MoUs) focused on marine protection, circular fashion, port innovation, and youth entrepreneurship

• Connect with diaspora communities, investors, and creative talent abroad

• Present their city’s vision through exhibitions, speaker slots, or cultural performances

• Tap into technical support and matchmaking for sustainable urban and coastal development

Our Focus for Coastal Cities

• Strengthening local creative economies and fashion sectors

• Supporting circular economy innovation in waste, water, and marine systems

• Promoting ethical trade, artisan entrepreneurship, and eco-tourism

• Collaborating with diaspora-led business initiatives

• Advancing sustainability goals (SDGs 11, 12, 14, and 17)

Let's Build the Future Together

We welcome cities and mayors ready to lead by example and champion culture, creativity, and climate resilience. Whether you're from Accra, Dakar, Lagos, Alexandria, Rotterdam, or Amsterdam—AFWA 2025 is your platform.

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[Nominate a City for Participation]
[Join the Mayor-to-Mayor Dialogues]
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