Beyond Ethnic Traditions: Philosophies and Socio-cultural Relevance of the Ashanti and the Ewe Kente cloths

Abstract

The socio-cultural symbolisms and aesthetics of the Ghanaian kente cloth has for years gained respect and recognition both locally and abroad. It has been used to define royalty, prominence and class. Its uniqueness is also seen in celebrating special occasions such as, birth, initiation, marriage, burial as well as honouring people for their patriotism. This paper examines the background of the Kente cloth in Ghana; addressing the diverse views of some schools of thought with regards its origin. (Fianu 2002; Ahiagble 2004). The paper explains the Ashanti’s and the Ewe’s hold on the Kente cloth as well as investigates the uses and the philosophies aligned with the motifs, and the reasons for creating the designs. By means of interviews and content analysis, the paper reports that both the Ashanti and Ewe Kente have their own uniqueness, but ultimately they have common functions with regards the symbols and meanings, as well as their use during rites of passage.  The paper further establishes that though aesthetic lines may arguably be drawn between the kente of the two societies, there are no boundaries when projecting royalty as well as norms and virtues.

Key words: kente, philosophies, Ashanti, Ewe, norms, virtues, rites of passage.