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As Paris Fashion week is going on, we highlight the work of Air Afrique, a Paris based creative collective formed of Lamine Diaoune, Djiby Kebe, Jeremy Konko and Ahmadou-Bamba, collaborated with Nike to launch the Air Max RK61.
RK was the original Flight Code for the airline launched in 1961, that used to connect West Africa with the world.
The The Première Classe campaign, showcases powerhouses such as Didier Drogba, renowned Malian singer Oumou Sangaré, sprinter Marie Josée Ta Lou-Smith and Mme Daba Traoré, a former employee of the original airline.
Synonymous with French sartorial elegance, the Air Max RK61 moccasin is ready for a board room or cross-continental flight. Inspired by air and it’s ability to transcend distance and connect with humanity, details such as a unit inspired by a jet engine, a zip pull featuring the original airline logo and morse code spelling “Air Afrique” on the outsole give the shoe it’s individuality. The jacquard sock liner is reminiscent of vintage aircraft seats, echoed in the campaign.
“The notion of Air is deeply connected to our history: Air Afrique, the airline itself, took to the skies to transcend cultures and newly independent African people”, says
Ahmadou-Bamba Thiam, Member of the Air Afrique collective and editor of its magazine.
Air Afrique is a platform for Afro-diasporic cultural expression. Started in 2021 with a nod to the Airlines history, it is rooted in visual arts, cinema and photography, connecting communities through shared memory, creativity and human interconnection.
“This project is meant to bring out the rich history of Air Afrique, highlighting what the airline represented as an achievement for the continent and the people of those West African nations, domestic and abroad. The opportunity to travel should be available to everyone, and the ability to meet new people, see distant relatives and gain exposure to different cultures forms our world view in a meaningful way.”
Jupiter Desphy, Air Max RK61 silhouette’s lead designer.
The Air Max RK61 will be available globally from 9th October 2025 across SNKRS and selected retail partners. Visit nike.com for details.