A special exhibition of Ghana's traditional kente textile has been organised by the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA) in collaboration with Woven Meanings at the All-Russian Museum of Decorative Arts in Moscow. The event is part of the International Festival of African Culture and Cinema Africa with the theme: Together into the Future, and the cultural programme of the Third Russia–Africa Summit.
Kente, one of the most recognisable symbols of Ghana's cultural heritage, occupies a central place in the exhibition. The textile is distinguished by its intricate geometric patterns, vibrant colour combinations and rich symbolism. The designs created by skilled artisans convey historical narratives, social values and cultural traditions that are carefully preserved and passed down from generation to generation.
The exhibition has so far attracted almost 11,000 visitors since its opening. The event features exhibitors from Ghana and showcases the rich tapestry of Ghanaian culture through the renowned hand-woven fabric. President John Dramani Mahama, who visited the exhibition while attending the third Russia-African Summit in Moscow, lauded the initiative, describing it as a crucial step towards consolidating international relationships through cultural understanding.
President Mahama noted that while government-to-government relations were important, the most enduring partnerships were those forged among ordinary people. He said that the only way to solidify these people-to-people relationships was by understanding each other's cultures. President Mahama was particularly impressed by the layout and organisation of the exhibits, noting that the explanations of the various pieces had been translated into Russian.
The exhibition was a profound journey through Ghana's political and cultural history. Key exhibits that captivated visitors included the original fugu worn by Ghana's first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, and the famous Fatia fata Nkrumah kente worn by his wife, Fathia. Also on display were Dr Nkrumah's original walking stick and a stunning collection of kente from various regions.
The Chief Executive Officer of GEPA, Francis Kojo Kwarteng Arthur, emphasised the significance of the showcase, stating that each display celebrated Ghana's craftsmanship and identity. He added that the event showcased all of Ghana's past presidents through their political journey, connecting the country's cultural heritage with historic moments and leaders.
The Deputy CEO of GEPA, Rashid Kramer, reiterated the authority's commitment to globalising Ghanaian craft, stating that they are taking Ghana's craftsmanship to the world and creating opportunities for made-in-Ghana products. He added that Ghana has a wide range of products with export potential, and at GEPA, their task is to turn that opportunity into sustained export growth.
Key points
- The exhibition has attracted almost 11,000 visitors since its opening.
- President John Dramani Mahama lauded the initiative, describing it as a crucial step towards consolidating international relationships through cultural understanding.
- The exhibition showcases Ghana's cultural heritage, including the renowned hand-woven kente fabric and historic items from Ghana's past presidents.
