The Kente Weavers of Ghana

This paper explores the state of Kente cloth weaving in Ghana, West Africa through four short case studies. It reviews the effects of the current socio-political climate on the weavers and the markets in which they sell their cloth and examines whether the balance of tradition and innovation can ensure the survival of the cloth. Furthermore, it looks at whether the patterns and colours being used still hold traditional value or whether this has been dropped in favour of purely aesthetic decisions. The case studies follow the two research trips carried out by Jessica in 2010/11 and are based on the interviews conducted there. As a weaver herself, she has learned the art of Kente first-hand and is able to report back following journeys to Daboya, one of the last indigo villages; Agbozume, the weaving epicentre of the Ewe region; and Adanwomase, in the heart of the Ashanti region.