A Lagos-based firm, Stitches Africa, has unveiled a new Artificial Intelligence-powered e-commerce platform for access to bespoke and ready-to-wear African fashion worldwide.

The platform connects talented African designers and tailors with customers across the globe, especially among Africans in the diaspora seeking authentic custom-made African wear.

Speaking at the official launch of the platform in Lagos, Cofounder, Stitches Africa, Franklyn Peters, said the initiative is aimed at bridging the fashion gap by addressing long-standing challenges such as limited access to African-made fashion abroad, market visibility for African tailors and inconsistent bespoke measurements.

He said that through its Al-driven body measurement technology, customers can now generate accurate digital measurements for perfectly tailored fits, from anywhere in the world.

The platform, he said, offers a seamless shopping experience where users can browse bespoke and ready-to-wear items, accessories and apparel made by verified African designers. Designers, in turn, he explained, gain access to new customers, the ability to earn in foreign currency, and potential funding support through strategic financial partnerships.

“With over 4.6 million Africans living in the United States and millions more across Europe, South America and Australia, the timing of this launch reflects growing global demand for authentic African fashion. Fashion lovers and members of the African diaspora can now experience Africa’s finest craftsmanship.

Peters said the innovative initiative focusing on African creativity and global reach will empower more African designers, connect cultures, heritage, celebrate authenticity, as well as pride in African craftsmanship.

Meanwhile, Stitches Africa has announced the signing of a $50 million financing programme to support market expansion, merchant production financing, logistics development and strategic product portfolio growth.

Head of Marketing, Stitches Africa, Joy Oikeh, who disclosed this to journalists, said the financing is led by JF Advisory Group with Cedrus Trustees Limited serving as custodian and transaction trustee.

According to her, the investment will enable Stitches Africa to scale its platform across key international markets and global corridors while providing financing to designers, tailors, and fashion entrepreneurs within its ecosystem.

The partnership, Oikeh said, included structured funding for logistics infrastructure to enhance distribution capacity and cross-border market access.