Words Mary Oluwawo Pictured The Soko Stingo launch in Accra earlier this month. Photos by Allen Coleman
From London to New York, markets that were once known for selling essentials have been reinvented into a fashionable platform for designers, socialites and entrepreneurs.
Now the trend has been picked up in Africa, with the arrival of pop-up style market Soko Stingo. The launch of the market took place in Accra on October 9 and attracted more than 300 visitors. The 16 stalls on display showcased brands such as Zali, Sleek, Orange Culture, Diva Delicious and Cool Beans, with everything from hair and clothing to food and therapeutic bath salts for sale.
Soko Stingo was started by five entrepreneurs as a creative business venture that would promote designers, create opportunities and connect creatives in Africa.
Adebayo Oke-lawal, Soko Stingo’s financial director, said: "It’s the first creative market that doesn’t have the sole goal of selling. We aim to build a platform to help African entrepreneurs to get to the next level. It's about building a relationship that brings people together all over Africa, from Botswana to Dakar".
Due to huge demand the market will be held quarterly every year. The next market will take place in December in Ghana over a longer two days, with a fashion show to showcase the vendors' pieces. A percentage of all proceeds will also be donated to African charities
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