Kente cloth, a vibrant and intricately woven textile, is one of Ghana’s most iconic cultural symbols. Kente is textile art, cultural heritage, history and philosophy. Kente weaving is deeply rooted in Ghanaian history and tradition.  This art form was traditionally passed down through generations, with each pattern and color holding specific meanings that convey stories of history, philosophy, and social values.

Each Kente design is unique, with colors and patterns symbolizing various aspects of life. For instance, black represents maturity and spiritual energy, blue signifies peace and harmony, and gold symbolizes royalty and wealth. These symbolic meanings make Kente more than just a fabric; it is a visual representation of Ghanaian heritage and identity.

As part of Ghana’s cultural heritage with deep emotive connections for Africa and its Diaspora, Ghana has submitted a dossier to UNESCO to consider Kente as part of humanity's intangible cultural heritage.

During the November 5, 2024 USA presidential elections campaign between President Donald Trump & Vice President Kamala Harris who was the Democratic pick for the Presidential candidate, Amma Prempeh Journalist,  Executive Producer, Film Director and Lawyer who was volunteering on Kamala Harris’ Campaign organized & gifted Kamala Harris’ Campaign & supporters with 40 specially handwoven Kente which was commissioned in Bonwire, Ghana & woven by weaver Kumi Boakye Yiadom.

The special Kente conveyed the following special messages: Wealth, Prudent Management, Truth, Justice, Equity and Fair Play. The colours of the kente are white, blue, black and red; and the designs in it are a gold stool and a measuring rod. The gold stool represents the wealth of a nation; the evenly distributed horizontal lines are the measuring rod depicting prudent management, Truth, Justice, Equity and Fair Play. Red (koogyan) means seriousness in all undertakings. Blue (bribri) peace and harmony. Black (bibire) and White (fufuo) signify racial harmony.

Today, Kente has transcended its traditional roots to become a global symbol of African pride and cultural heritage. It is used in various forms, from traditional attire at ceremonies to contemporary fashion and academic stoles at graduation ceremonies. The adaptability of Kente highlights the dynamic nature of Ghanaian culture, bridging the past and present.

Though Kamala did not win the election, the use of kente to convey a message in the US presidential race will forever remain significant. It was the first time Kente had been used to tell a story during a USA political election. Amma Prempeh conveyed the political message beautifully using the Kente sashs.

It is important to note that the following personalities in the pictures wearing the Kamala Harris Campaign Kente sashes/scarfs during the voting day on November 5th, 2024 .
 
Kente cloth remains a powerful emblem of Ghana’s rich cultural tapestry, celebrated both locally and internationally for its beauty and significance.

 
By Osei Bonsu Safo Kantanka

Royal Society For Asante

Culture and History

Kumasi, Ghana

oseibonsusafokantanka@gmail .com