Rwanda Cultural Fashion Show (RCFS) signed partnership deals with four top local model agencies after reaching an agreement to support the development of Rwandan models.

The deal will give a platform to young models to showcase their talents to the fashion world.

Aside from Rwanda Modesty Fashion Show that agreed a five-year deal, Tarama Rwanda inked a one-year deal while RIFI Fashion Agency and Uno Fashion Agency, each agreed to enter the partnership for the next three years which could be renewed depending on the outcomes of the partnership.

RCFS Vice-President Moniah Uwimbabazi said that they engaged different model agencies to not only push models but to also join hands in contributing the development of the fashion industry in general.

Through the partnership, RCFS will organise modeling competitions every term where winning models will be promoted to all its social media platforms and its website (rcfs.rw) besides cash prizes.

"If there is something that local models lack, it’s a platform where they can showcase their talents. That’s why we are going to start to organise competition and recognise those who will make the difference,” said Uwimbabazi.

"We all know what it takes a model to hit big fashion stages. We have talented models but they don't have the platform to shine. I hope that the new partnership will serve the purpose,” she added.

All agencies welcomed the move and hailed RCFS for dedicating its support to the development of Rwandan models who have been struggling for platforms to show what they can offer to the fashion community in Rwanda and worldwide.

Abdul Wahab Ngabitsinze, the CEO of Rwanda Modesty Fashion said that the new partnership will help in unearthing new talents and give them exposure to the international fashion industry.

"We have seen a small number of Rwandan models impressing at international stages. So this partnership comes at the right time when we need to increase that number to have more models representing the country. Hopefully, together we can,” he said.