Fally Ipupa, the Congolese music icon known for blending Afrobeat, rumba, and contemporary sounds, has once again captivated audiences with his latest single, Mayanga. Released on March 29, 2025, this song is more than just music—it’s a cultural tribute to African women and their beauty.

A collaboration with Vlisco, a leading African fashion brand, Mayanga seamlessly merges music and fashion to highlight the confidence, identity, and strength of African femininity.

History of Vilisco

Vlisco, a Dutch textile company founded in 1846, has played a pivotal role in shaping African fashion despite its European origins. Initially created to replicate Indonesian batik using roller printing technology, Vlisco’s fabrics failed to gain traction in Indonesia but found an enthusiastic market in West Africa.

African women quickly embraced the bold designs, and over time, the company adapted its patterns and colors to align with regional tastes and cultural significance.

By the mid-20th century, Vlisco had become a symbol of African identity, with its prints often telling unique stories—such as the “La Famille” design, which reflects family dynamics through symbolic imagery.

Today, despite competition from cheaper imitations, Vlisco remains a cornerstone of West and Central African fashion, producing over 350,000 unique designs while maintaining its reputation for quality, heritage, and cultural relevance.

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The Meaning Behind Mayanga

The title Mayanga, meaning “The Incredible”, reflects themes of admiration, love, and empowerment. The song serves as a love letter to African women, particularly those who wear Vlisco fabrics, which have long been symbols of self-expression and heritage. Through this track, Fally Ipupa not only showcases his signature smooth vocals and rhythmic beats but also reinforces the idea of unity, sisterhood, and cultural pride.

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A Stunning Visual Experience

Accompanying the song is a visually striking music video filmed in Ivory Coast. Directed by the acclaimed Daniel Obasi, the video features stunning fashion pieces by Loza Maléombho, a designer celebrated for her ability to merge modern and traditional African aesthetics. The video is a vibrant portrayal of African identity, elegance, and resilience, perfectly aligning with Vlisco’s ongoing campaign, The Garden of Sisterhood.

The Power of Music and Fashion in African Culture

Mayanga is not just a song—it’s a cultural movement. Through this collaboration, Vlisco continues its mission to uplift and celebrate African women beyond the world of fashion. The brand’s bold prints and luxurious fabrics serve as a visual representation of strength, dignity, and heritage, making their partnership with Fally Ipupa a natural fit.

Fally Ipupa’s ability to infuse traditional African rhythms with contemporary beats has made him one of the most influential artists on the continent. Mayanga follows his signature style, bringing together Afrobeat, rumba, and modern production to create a song that is both timeless and relevant.

Conclusion

With Mayanga, Fally Ipupa continues to push artistic boundaries, merging music, fashion, and cultural storytelling in a way that resonates deeply with his audience. This collaboration with Vlisco reinforces the celebration of African heritage, making the song not just a hit, but an ode to the power, confidence, and grace of African women.

Introduction:
Ini Edo’s father’s funeral brought together a powerful display of love, respect, and solidarity. Among the many emotional tributes, the standout moments came from the stunning Afrocentric outfits worn by celebrities, including Lilian Afegbai, Tolu Bally, and others, who paid homage to the late patriarch.

Each ensemble was more than just clothing; they were a celebration of African heritage, rich culture, and the beauty of diversity. From bold prints to intricate designs, the fashion choices were a statement of pride and connection to the continent’s roots. These carefully selected outfits not only honored the occasion but also served as an expression of personal identity and cultural pride.

1. Ini Edo

White is often associated with spiritual renewal, purity, and the celebration of life. In many African cultures, wearing white at a funeral signifies a transition, honoring the deceased’s journey to the afterlife while embracing their legacy with reverence.

When Ini Edo chose to wear white at his father’s funeral, it was not just a personal choice but a symbolic gesture—one that reflected respect, hope, and the belief that his father’s spirit lived on. Instead of mourning in sorrow, he embraced the occasion as a tribute to a life well-lived, finding solace in the purity of remembrance.

2. Tolu bally

Outfit; @2207bytbally

ALSO READ: 10 Afrocentric Outfit You Can Wear To Funeral

3. Lilian Afegbai

4. Ruth Kadiri Ezerika

5. Mimi Yina

6.Rita Dominic-Anosike

7. Toke Makinwa

8. Uche Jombo

9.Nkechi ufondu

ALSO READ: NIGERIAN ACTRESS INI EDO OVER THE TOP DRESSES

Conclusion:
As much as the event was a somber farewell, it was also a moment for those present to celebrate the African heritage that unites them all. The carefully crafted Afrocentric outfits were a testament to the creativity, heritage, and rich traditions of African fashion.

Through these powerful fashion statements, Lilian Afegbai, Tolu Bally, and other attendees highlighted the deep connection to culture and identity, showcasing that in times of grief, the African spirit endures in beauty, unity, and resilience.

Tanzanian model, singer, and entrepreneur Hamisa Mobetto recently tied the knot with Ivorian footballer Stephane Aziz Ki in a wedding that captivated fans across Africa. The couple’s union, celebrated in a stunning ceremony at the Nnuur Mosque in Dar es Salaam on February 16, 2025, was followed by a lavish reception on February 19.

Credit : @Hamisa Mobetto & @Aziz Ki’s

While the extravagant nature of the celebrations, including a bride price of 30 cows and TSh30 million, sparked widespread attention, the fashion on display was equally breathtaking. From Hamisa’s regal bridal ensembles to the dapper groom’s attire and the impeccable outfits worn by the guests, this wedding was a true fashion spectacle.

Hamisa Mobetto’s Stunning Bridal Looks

1. The Elegant Nikkah Dress

For the Islamic wedding ceremony, Hamisa Mobetto opted for a breathtaking white and gold gown with intricate embroidery. The dress, designed in a modest yet luxurious style, featured a high neckline, long sleeves, and exquisite beading. She complemented her look with an elegant hijab, perfectly draped, adding an ethereal touch. The delicate gold accents on the gown shimmered under the lights, making her look like royalty.

2. The Grand Reception Look

For the reception, Hamisa made a dramatic entrance in a dazzling couture gown encrusted with Swarovski crystals. Designed by a top African designer, the dress showcased a structured bodice, a voluminous layered train, and hand-stitched embellishments that radiated opulence. The deep champagne hue of the gown added a unique touch, setting her apart from traditional bridal colors.

3. The Traditional Attire

Embracing her African roots, Hamisa also wore a beautifully crafted kitenge outfit for a special cultural segment of the celebrations. The Ankara fabric featured a rich mix of gold and royal blue prints, symbolizing prosperity and elegance. She accessorized with statement jewelry and a matching gele (headwrap), exuding Afrocentric sophistication.

Stephane Aziz Ki’s Dashing Groom Looks

1. The Classic Ivory Tuxedo

For the Nikkah ceremony, Aziz Ki looked dapper in an ivory tuxedo with gold detailing, perfectly complementing Hamisa’s bridal ensemble. The tailored fit, paired with a crisp white shirt and gold bow tie, gave him a regal yet modern look.

2. The Luxe Reception Suit

During the grand reception, Aziz Ki switched to a sharp black and gold tuxedo. The custom design featured intricate embroidery on the lapels, adding an element of luxury. His polished black loafers and diamond-studded cufflinks completed the sophisticated ensemble.

3. The Cultural Attire

Matching Hamisa’s African-inspired look, Aziz Ki donned a richly woven agbada in deep navy blue and gold embroidery, embracing his West African heritage. The traditional outfit was a standout moment, showcasing the seamless blend of East and West African influences at the wedding.

Fashion Highlights from the Guests

The star-studded wedding saw a parade of stylish guests, including celebrities, influencers, and dignitaries who brought their A-game to the celebration. Some standout fashion moments included:

• Tanzanian Actress Wema Sepetu in a deep emerald green mermaid gown with intricate beadwork.
• Fashion mogul Jokate Mwegelo in a structured gold and burgundy gown, exuding regal elegance.
• Ivorian footballers and groomsmen in custom-tailored tuxedos, setting a new standard for wedding guest style.
• Bridesmaids in champagne and rose gold satin dresses, complementing Hamisa’s opulent bridal attire.
• Also Read: The Modern Evolution of the Gele Style & Pride

Conclusion

Hamisa Mobetto and Stephane Aziz Ki’s wedding was not just a union of love but also a celebration of cultural elegance and high fashion. Every outfit—from the bride’s regal gowns to the groom’s sharp tuxedos and the guests’ exquisite ensembles—reflected a blend of tradition, modernity, and luxury. This wedding has undoubtedly set a new standard for style in East African celebrity nuptials, inspiring fashion lovers across the continent.

Which outfit from the wedding was your favorite? Let us know in the comments!