Hamida Mziwanda Brings the Soul of Africa to the Runway at Sauti ya Mitindo

By Charles Mkoka

At the recently held international Sauti ya Mitindo event in Dar es Salaam, all eyes fell on one designer Hamida Mziwanda. Known on Instagram as @mziwanda_designer, Hamida unveiled a couture piece that was more than just a dress; it was a statement of heritage, resilience, and artistry.

Her creation — a sculptural gown woven from Ukindu and raffia fiber stunned the crowd. Originally envisioned with sand as its core element, Hamida pivoted and chose natural raffia instead, transforming her idea into a wearable masterpiece that captured the raw textures and earthy beauty of Africa.

As she stepped onto the runway, her gown shimmered with authenticity, organic, powerful, and unapologetically African. Each turn, each movement spoke of tradition reimagined for the global stage.

“When I think of fashion, I see something that covers the entire world,” Hamida said. “That’s why I turned to Ukindu and raffia fiber, materials that speak of our roots, yet carry the strength to go global.”

Her inspiration, she revealed, is drawn from the legends, Khadija Mwanamboka and Miriam Odemba, whose pioneering spirit continues to light the path for the new generation of African creatives.

“There are people who came before us. They shine enough light to show us the way — and that’s what drives me to dream bigger,” she shared.

But Hamida’s vision is not only about glamour; it’s also about inclusivity.

Designer Hamida Mziwanda takes the stage in her raffia couture gown with global model Miriam Odemba, who was unveiling her newly published book at the Sauti ya Mitindo event. At right, a BASATA representative joins the moment. (PHOTO: Courtesy)

“Fashion is for everyone,” she affirmed. “Children, youth, adults, even the elderly. It’s what unites us, and I love being in spaces where I can meet different people and be inspired to grow.”

Her brand, Mziwanda Designer, champions modern tailoring with an African heartbeat, bold yet modest, refined yet rooted. For Hamida, design is more than stitching fabric; it’s finishing a story, and her story began as a little girl in love with style.

Now, with platforms like Sauti ya Mitindo and the mentorship of icons like Miriam Odemba, Hamida believes Tanzanian fashion is ready to take its place on the world stage.

“We have what it takes to grow internationally,” she declared. “And I am ready.”

With her raffia-and-Ukindu couture dress, Hamida Mziwanda didn’t just show fashion; she showed the world a vision — one where Africa’s past and future meet in a breathtaking silhouette.