Stitches Africa, an AI-driven e-commerce platform for bespoke and ready-to-wear African fashion, officially unveiled its mobile app in Lagos on Friday, aiming to bring African fashion to the world stage.

At the launch, Franklin Peters, Co-founder and Managing Director of Stitches Africa, described the platform as a transformative solution for the continent’s fashion industry. He explained that the app connects African designers and tailors with global customers, providing greater visibility and access to international markets.

“The platform especially benefits millions of Africans in the diaspora seeking authentic, custom-made African attire,” Peters said, highlighting the growing global demand for African craftsmanship.

Powered by AI-driven body measurement technology, the app allows customers to generate accurate digital measurements, ensuring perfectly tailored fits no matter where they are in the world. Peters emphasized that the platform offers a seamless shopping experience for both bespoke and ready-to-wear items produced by verified African designers.

“Africans in the diaspora want to connect with home. With Stitches Africa, they can do that wherever they are. Just as African music has gone global, African fashion will now grace wardrobes worldwide,” he added.

The platform allows designers and tailors in Nigeria to receive orders from across the globe and earn in foreign currency. Peters noted that the initiative also opens avenues for potential funding to support designers’ production and business growth.

In a significant boost for expansion, Stitches Africa announced a $50 million financing programme to enhance market reach, support merchant production, improve logistics, and grow its product portfolio. Joy Oikeh, Head of Marketing, explained that the programme is led by JF Advisory Group, with Cedrus Trustees Ltd as custodian and transaction trustee. The investment will enable Stitches Africa to scale operations internationally while providing financial support and infrastructure to fashion entrepreneurs within its ecosystem.

Ntishorkara Monkom, Head of Legal, described the initiative as “the future of African fashion commerce, one that empowers creators, strengthens value chains, and connects African creativity to global markets.” She added that the funding reflects strong investor confidence in both Stitches Africa’s business model and the growth potential of the African fashion industry.