Kente is a hand woven silk and cotton cloth originating in South Ghana, but its use, influence, and popularity spread throughout West Africa. In original Akan tradition, kente (called nwentom) was only worn by royalty and for religious and sacred purposes. A tribe in Ghana called the Ewes also had their own Kente designs similar to the one of Akans. In modern days, kente has evolved to be a symbol of African heritage for people all over the world.
Kente can be seen in use for traditional West African celebrations, such as weddings and festivals.
This gave birth to “Kente print” which is a regular cotton fabric with designs similar to original woven kente cloth.
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