The traditional Kente fabric from Ghana was officially recognized as intangible cultural heritage by UNESCOmarking a significant milestone for the country’s culture and identity. This fabric, famous for its vibrant colors and intricate patterns, originates from Asante and Ewe communities of Ghana and is deeply rooted in local history and traditions.
Made with woven strips of silk, cotton or rayon using horizontal frames, Kente is much more than just a material: it represents a means of symbolic communication. Every piece tells a storyreflecting proverbs, sayings or social events, and the colors and patterns chosen vary according to the wearer’s age, gender and social role.
Each color of Kente has specific symbolic meaningslike gold representing wealth, red symbolizing sacrifice and white representing purity. This rich symbolism makes Kente a symbol of identity and cultural belonging.
The processing of Kente cloth is one artisan tradition handed down from generation to generation. Skills are taught through apprenticeships in families, schools and at events such as festivals and workshops.
Both men and women play an important role in its production
The womenin general, deal with yarn productionwhile the men they build the frames and the tools needed for weaving. Each community is led by a head weaver, a key figure in ensuring the quality of the work and coordinating the weavers’ activities.
The UNESCO recognition highlights the cultural importance of Kente and its role in the preservation of Ghanaian traditions. Andrew Egyapa MercerMinister of Tourism of Ghana, underlined how this result represents the country’s commitment to preserve and promote its cultural heritage. A special role was recognized to the communities of Bonwire And Agotimehistorical custodians of this tradition.
Kente cloth is appreciated internationally, but remains a distinctive element of Ghanaian culture, reflecting the people’s creativity and sense of identity. This global recognition not only valorizes the work of artisans, but also offers new opportunities to promote cultural tourism and raise awareness around the world aboutimportance of preserving local traditions.
Ghana, through its Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, has reiterated its commitment to protecting this unique heritage, promoting it as symbol of national pride and an integral part of world history.
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