T.I Debuts His Clothing Lines in Africa

Last week T.I. traveled to Africa–Tanzania, to be exact–and caused a stir for saying he “ain’t afraid of no Ebola.” He is about to cause another stir. The rapper/actor not only performed at the mega Serengeti Fiesta 2014 in Tanzania that gets an average of 500,000-plus people annually, but he also debuted his clothing lines (Hustle Gang, Akoo and Strivers Row) at the Leaders Club in Dar es Salaam.

It seems T.I. took to heart President Obama urging Americans to invest in Africa during the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit earlier this year. And why not. Africa is an untapped market for most American companies and it is one of the fastest growing markets globally. So it seems like a smart move on T.I.’s part.

According to Jason Geter, CEO of T.I.’s Atlanta-based Grand Hustle Records, “For us, we are excited to bring our brands to Africa and specifically Tanzania.” The economy of Tanzania is projected to grow by around seven percent in 2014 and 2015, according to the African Development Bank.

“We think this is a great market that is ready for our products and I look forward to not only introducing our designs to Tanzania but also looking at the local fashion scene while we are there,” says Geter.
For the launch, T.I. attended the Pop Up Shop event, where fans had the chance to buy authentic Hustle Gang, Akoo, and Strivers Row clothing. Boutique owners were also there to place orders to sell in their shops, reports allAfrica.