ACCRA, Ghana — On Jan. 7, 2025, Ghana’s Black Star Square stood as a beacon of pride and unity as John Dramani Mahama was sworn in as president.
While the ceremony was steeped in tradition and political significance, President Mahama’s striking inauguration attire captured global attention—a masterpiece crafted by Ghanaian designer Matthew Agambire.
President Mahama’s outfit was more than just fashion- a celebration of Ghanaian heritage and African craftsmanship- adorned in a regal white agbada accented with vibrant kente patterns and symbolic Adinkra motifs.
The man behind this iconic ensemble, Agambire, is the founder of the fashion brand Bondaana and a rising star in Africa’s fashion industry.
In an interview with GHOne TV, Agambire revealed that he began conceptualizing the outfit two months before the elections.
“I felt like this was a whole national issue; it’s not even only national but the whole world was watching,” Agambire explained.
“If you want to do something that would stand out or speak to the occasion, you need more time. So, I decided to start putting ideas and thoughts together early.”
When questioned about the risks of designing the outfit before the election outcome, Agambire responded confidently: “There were only two candidates; either of them could win. I decided to go with him [Mahama] because I felt he was the one that fit well in my idea.”
Agambire’s approach to connecting with President Mahama was both bold and innovative.
Without direct contact, he studied the president’s physique through photographs to estimate measurements and crafted initial pieces. “I got in touch with someone closer to him and said, ‘Can you deliver this to him? Maybe he may like it.’ It’s the same approach I use for most people I don’t have prior contact with.”
This audacious strategy exemplifies Agambire’s entrepreneurial spirit and keen networking ability, which earned him recognition in the prestigious 40 Under 40 Ghana list last year.
His work with high-profile clients demonstrates the depth of talent within Africa’s fashion industry—an industry often overshadowed by international brands.
Reflecting on the significance of his work, Agambire shared on LinkedIn: “It has been a humbling experience serving President John Dramani Mahama as his official atelier through my fashion brand: BONDAANA. But more importantly, It was an absolute honor to be trusted with the responsibility to craft this outfit that represents Ghana and Africa for his inaugural ceremony.”
President Mahama’s attire symbolized leadership and served as a statement about the potential of African designers.
The intricate kente patterns and Adinkra symbols woven into the ensemble resonated with Ghanaians and the wider African diaspora, showcasing the continent’s rich cultural heritage and artistic excellence.
As Africa continues to emerge as a global hub of creativity, Agambire’s success story highlights the need for African leaders and institutions to invest in and promote local talent.
His journey from envisioning designs to dressing a head of state exemplifies the transformative power of supporting indigenous industries.
Agambire’s work demonstrates the brilliance and resilience of African designers.
His creations stand as a call to action for African leaders and citizens alike: to recognize, celebrate and invest in the continent’s own artistic and entrepreneurial talents.
At the heart of President Mahama’s inauguration was a profound message—Africa’s future is being woven by its own hands.
