The Kenyan Government has thrown its support behind the 2026 edition of Africa’s Next Super Model, describing the event as an opportunity to boost tourism, promote African culture and expand the country’s creative economy.
The modelling competition was founded by Nigerian fashion entrepreneur and model scout, Joan Okorodudu, who is also the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ISIS Models and Africa’s Next Super Model.
Kenya’s Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife formally endorsed the initiative, with Principal Secretary of the State Department for Tourism, Prof. Julius Bitok, highlighting the potential economic and cultural benefits of hosting the continental event.
The grand finale is scheduled to take place in Nairobi on November 2, 2026, while prospective models will participate in a casting session in the Kenyan capital on August 29.
According to Bitok, Kenya views fashion and modelling as increasingly important components of its tourism and creative industries. He said events such as Africa’s Next Super Model could attract models, designers, photographers, media organisations, investors and audiences from different parts of Africa and beyond.
He added that the government was pursuing the creative economy as part of its broader economic transformation strategy, particularly because of its potential to create jobs, empower young people, encourage innovation and generate opportunities in tourism and exports.
The government also recognised the Africa International Fashion Week as an event capable of increasing Kenya’s global profile and supporting destination marketing.
Bitok said the partnership could help promote Kenya as a tourism and investment destination while providing a platform for African fashion and cultural expression.
He further noted that fashion tourism was becoming an important segment of the tourism industry, alongside cultural tourism, business events, shopping and destination branding.
The Kenyan Government believes the combination of fashion, culture and tourism will give the country an opportunity to showcase its heritage while connecting with the growing African creative economy.
The endorsement comes ahead of the 2026 Africa’s Next Super Model finale, which is expected to bring together emerging modelling talent and key players in the continent’s fashion industry in Nairobi.
