Nelson Mandela goes into fashion business

Former South African President, Nelson Mandela has moved into fashion with his foundation launching its first international clothing line “46664” in South Africa on March 8, 2011.

The Associated Press (AP) reports that the 46664 Apparel line, designed by Seardel, South Africa’s biggest textile and clothing manufacturer, features men’s sportswear and intricately patterned, African-influenced women’s wear.

The line is named after Mandela’s prisoner number at the infamous Robben Island Prison, where he was the 466th prisoner in 1964. The anti-apartheid icon spent 27 years in prison before becoming South Africa’s first black president in 1994.

Proceeds from the sale of the clothing line items will be used to help sustain the foundation’s charitable gifts.

The money will help the foundation’s sustainability, Dangor told the AP, revealing that last year it had been forced to stop supporting projects in Ghana and Tanzania.

He said Mandela’s image would not appear on any of the clothing.

According to Dangor, 46664 will be available online, for sale internationally in August.

Prices of the Mandela wear ranges from $26 to $200 depending on the product type.

By Ekow Quandzie