Report By: Ishmael Barfi
Kente transcends mere fabric; it serves as a profound emblem of the rich history, philosophical insights, ethical values, oral traditions, spiritual beliefs, societal norms, and political ideologies of West Africa.
Globally recognized, Kente has emerged as a significant symbol of African heritage and pride for individuals of African descent throughout the diaspora.
During a stakeholder engagement convened by the Ghana Industrial Property Office (GHIPO) in Accra, participants emphasized the critical need to safeguard Kente through the establishment of geographical indication (GI) status.
This event underscored the cultural and economic importance of Kente, as well as the necessity of preserving its authenticity.
In a video message, Loretta Asiedu, Acting Director for the African Bureau of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), expressed gratitude to all stakeholders for their involvement and commitment to this vital initiative.
She acknowledged the contributions of the Government of Ghana, the Ghana Industrial Property Office, and various experts and stakeholders in advancing this project.
As she stated, the recognition and protection of Kente as a geographical indication will not only safeguard its distinctive characteristics but also enhance its marketability and economic worth.
In an interview with TheNewIndependentOnline Ms. Grace Ama Issahaque, the Registrar-General of Ghana, highlighted that the seminar aimed to bring together Kente weavers from diverse towns, regions, and communities to foster a unified brand identity for their products.
She noted that since 2016, there has been a deliberate effort to educate weavers, particularly those in rural areas, emphasizing the need to preserve and properly market the unique products created by these artisans, who are deeply influenced by their surroundings, culture, and traditions.
Furthermore, Ms. Issahaque revealed that a Code of Conduct is being formulated to assist weavers in upholding quality and production standards.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
