Ghana’s traditional handwoven textile, Kente cloth, has been added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
Once reserved exclusively for royalty, Ghanaians believe that Kente cloth is the most beautiful fabric in the world. Its bold patterns and vibrant colors are a source of national pride, representing a centuries-old craft rooted in rich history.
It comes as no surprise that the United Nations cultural agency UNESCO announced this month that Kente cloth will be added to its Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
The handwoven fabric not only enhances the elegance of its wearer but also reflects their region and sense of style through unique designs.
“When I wear Kente cloth, it’s one of the best feelings I experience. The way I walk changes, the way I talk changes. I feel so elegant,” Bright Yeboah told TRT Africa.
What is Kente, and how is it made?
The art of Kente weaving, with its striking colors, is said to date back as far as the 17th century CE. Historically, it was primarily reserved as royal ceremonial attire among the Asante and Ewe peoples.
The fabric is woven on wooden looms, often in homes or specialized workshops, using silk, cotton, or rayon. The intricate craft has been passed down for generations through apprenticeship within weaving families.
