30/12/2025
Inmates Turn Prison Yard into Stunning Fashion Runway at Historic Kumasi Show
In a groundbreaking event, inmates at Ghana's Kumasi Central Prison put on an amazing first-ever fashion show on Monday, December 29, 2025. The prison yard was transformed into a colorful runway where prisoners proudly modeled clothes they helped design and make.
The inmates walked confidently, showing off beautiful outfits like traditional Ghanaian kente cloth, batik and tie-dye patterns, northern smocks, and modern casual or formal styles. Many of these clothes were sewn by the prisoners themselves through vocational training programs that teach useful skills.
Female inmates from the nearby Kumasi Female Prison joined in, led by their officer, CSP Florence Akua Asabea Taylor. This teamwork between prisons highlighted how such events help with rehabilitation and building new abilities.
Special guests, including police from other agencies, politicians, fashion experts, donors, and journalists, watched the show. They walked a red carpet before sitting down to enjoy the displays. Several Ghanaian brands supported the event, such as UNIJAY Limited, Horseman Shoes, Starladin, Rash Tailor, Golden Ohemaa’s Collection, House of Kotobre, LOD Creations, AY Joe, and Manuel Clothings and Textiles.
The masked models mixed Ghana's rich culture with fresh modern looks, earning loud cheers from the crowd for their creative and well-made pieces.
The prison's leader, DDP James B. Mwinyelle, said the event showed what inmates are truly capable of. "This isn't about being locked up—it's about showing their talents and how we help them change and fit back into society," he explained.
CSP Florence Akua Asabea Taylor praised the inmates' hard work and strength, adding that these skills will help them find jobs and build better lives after release.
This fashion show was the exciting grand finale of the 2025 Inmates Funfair, a week-long celebration starting December 22 with games, activities, and empowerment programs.
The event supports the Ghana Prisons Service's focus on reformation, rehabilitation, and reintegration—proving that prisons can be places of positive change and hidden talent.