The atmosphere was charged with reflection and purpose on Friday as designers and cultural advocates gathered for the closed-door technical day of the 2025 Atoghu Fashion Festival.
Held exclusively for registered participants and members of the press, the day-long session served as a profound platform for knowledge sharing, capacity building, and critical reflection on the future of Atoghu which stands as the iconic cultural attire of the Grassfield people of Cameroon.
The high point of the day was a panel discussion that echoed a resounding call for the proper documentation of Atoghu and efforts towards securing its recognition as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.Composed of academic Dr Alasambom, Miss Deborah Abato of the Ministry of Arts and Culture, Armstrong Fombi and Vumomsi Ngwefonta of NOFADA, the panel examined the efforts made in documenting the Atoghu, the challenges and way forward. Dr Alasambom expressed the wish to documentation to be done in all forms including multimedia as the advocacy continues.
The Panellists emphasised the urgent need to preserve the symbols, meanings, and heritage embodied by Atoghu, stressing that without deliberate action, much of its rich narrative could be lost to future generations.
Throughout the day, participants engaged with a series of insightful presentations.
Mrs Armelle Nogning, a leading fashion designer, took participants through the principles of inclusive marketing, encouraging creators to broaden the reach of their designs while remaining rooted in authenticity. She highlighted strategies for making Atoghu more accessible to diverse audiences, including persons with disabilities, thus reinforcing the inclusive character of the festival.
Cultural promoter Armstrong Fombi took participants through the historic significance of the Atoghu which to him is bigger than an event or a fabric but an ideology which is tired to the ancestral roots of the people of the North West Region
The conversation around intellectual property was equally stimulating. Akumbu L. Jones of Black Swagger Inc. advocated for the legal protection of Atoghu under Geographical Indication (GI) status. This, he argued, would not only safeguard the originality of Atoghu designs but also empower local communities economically.
Reflecting on the day, many participants expressed optimism that a strong foundation had been laid for Atoghu to gain national and international recognition. They agreed that protecting and promoting Atoghu was not just about fashion; it was about preserving identity, telling stories, and securing a future where the Grassfield’s cultural legacy thrives.
The festival runs under the theme: “One Brand, One People – The Pride of the Grassfield.”