At the 10th anniversary in Buea, Ruth Kadiri turned the festival’s Cultural Night at Buea Mountain Hotel into a fashion moment, stepping out in a look that perfectly married Nollywood glamour with Cameroonian heritage.
The Look: Velvet, Beads and Heritage
Kadiri wore a custom navy-blue velvet mini dress that was pure drama from every angle. The structured, off-shoulder corset featured a deep plunging neckline, completely encrusted with ruby-red crystals and beads that trailed down the bust.
The real showstoppers were the shoulders, exaggerated, sculpted cap sleeves dripping with long strands of red beaded fringe that swayed with every step. The same intricate red beading continued around the dramatic peplum hips, which flared out before cascading into more fringe.
Underneath the velvet peplum, Kadiri paid direct homage to her hosts. The dress revealed a fitted mini skirt in vibrant blue-and-white tie-dye, a clear nod to Cameroon’s iconic Ndop and Toghu textiles celebrated throughout the night. She finished the look with matching red lace slingback heels, a sleek low ponytail, soft glam makeup with a glossy nude lip, and simple pearl studs, letting the dress do all the talking.
Photos by Peculiar Haston captured her on the hotel’s garden steps, the red fringe catching the light as she posed, a vision in blue and red.
More Than Fashion
Kadiri’s appearance is one of the highlights of CAMIFF 2026, which runs from April 20 to April 25 and is organised by Prince Agbor Gilbert Ebot. She arrived in Buea as a headline guest alongside fellow Nollywood legend Ramsey Nouah and Hollywood star Blair Underwood, with the trio paying an official visit to the Governor of the Southwest Region earlier this week.
Beyond the red carpet, Kadiri is lending her industry weight to the festival’s professional program, hosting workshops for young filmmakers on film business and digital monetisation.
At a Cultural Night dedicated to celebrating African roots through fashion, music and film, Ruth Kadiri proved why she remains one of Nollywood’s most bankable stars. She came to Cameroon, respected the culture, and still stole the show.
