Each year, The Hague African Festival selects a fashion designer whose work reflects the festival’s core values of creativity, community, and cultural pride. For this year’s edition, we are proud to present Dzogbefa, a Ghanaian fashion label that goes far beyond the runway. We sat down with the founder of Dzogbefa, Hafianyo Kenneth, to discuss his vision, social mission, and what audiences can expect from his upcoming showcase at AfroBeats in the Park on August 3rd.
FASHION & CREATIVE VISION
How would you describe Dzogbefa’s design philosophy? What story do your collections aim to tell?
“Thank you to The Hague African Festival for this opportunity. First, Dzogbefa means Goodluck and Peace in Ewe, a dialect from the Volta Region of Ghana. Our design philosophy is rooted in storytelling through fabric and form. We celebrate African heritage by blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. Our collections speak to themes of resilience, identity, and unity, with bold colors and symbolic patterns that invite self-expression.”
What does ethical fashion mean to you, and how is it reflected in your process?
“Ethical fashion is about respect for people, culture, and the planet. We work closely with local artisans in Ghana, ensuring fair wages and preserving traditional techniques. We minimize waste by repurposing offcuts and producing in small batches to reduce environmental impact.”
You design for the entire family. What inspired that inclusive approach?
“In Ghana, coordinated outfits often reflect unity and celebration. Designing for men, women, and children is our way of bringing that sense of belonging into our collections. It allows families to share meaningful moments through fashion.”
SUSTAINABILITY & SOCIAL IMPACT
Dzogbefa goes beyond fashion. Tell us about your reusable menstrual pad initiative.
“This project is very close to my heart. Many girls in Ghana miss school during their periods due to lack of access to sanitary products. We started producing reusable menstrual pads to offer a sustainable, affordable solution. By training local women to make them, we not only support girls’ education but also create livelihoods and empower communities.”
Why combine fashion with a social mission?
“Fashion is more than aesthetics—it’s a platform for change. Our brand allows us to raise awareness and invest in solutions like menstrual health, washable baby diapers, and skill-building for women. These values are at the heart of what we create.”
How do you ensure ethical practices in your supply chain?
“We prioritize locally sourced materials like handwoven Kente and Batik, and work directly with artisans and cooperatives. Our women’s empowerment program in Ghana offers free training and job opportunities, while supporting the local economy and reducing our carbon footprint.”
CRAFTSMANSHIP & AFRICAN IDENTITY
How do your Ghanaian roots influence your designs?
“My roots shape everything I create. From the colors of our landscapes to the symbolism in our textiles. Africa is rich in diversity, and through Dzogbefa, I aim to show that richness in a way that feels both authentic and modern.”
Are there cultural symbols that often appear in your work?
“Absolutely. Adinkra symbols like Sankofa, which encourages us to return to what is good, feature prominently. We also design our own prints inspired by nature and motifs from the Volta Region, blending traditional wisdom with innovation.”
AT THE HAGUE AFRICAN FESTIVAL
What can people expect from your fashion showcase this year?
“A vibrant celebration of African creativity — bold prints, elegant drapes, and meaningful stories woven into every piece. It’s not just a fashion show, it’s an experience that connects people to culture.”
What message do you want to leave with the audience?
“To African communities, I want this to be a moment of pride—our heritage is powerful and worthy of global recognition. To all others, I hope you walk away with a deeper appreciation for African craftsmanship, and the belief that fashion can truly be a force for good. And lastly, remember: Climate change is real. Let’s act together.”
Join Us at AfroBeats in the Park
Dzogbefa is this year’s featured fashion designer at The Hague African Festival, and will take the spotlight during our AfroBeats in the Park event on August 3rd at Zuiderpark Theater.
Don’t miss the show — come celebrate fashion, culture, and community with us.
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