Accra, Ghana – Ghana’s iconic Kente cloth has been officially recognized as the country’s first Geographical Indication (GI) product, marking a major milestone in protecting one of Africa’s most celebrated cultural symbols.
The announcement follows Kente’s earlier inscription by UNESCO on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, affirming its global cultural significance. The GI status ensures that only authentic Kente made in Ghana — particularly in traditional weaving centres such as Bonwire, Agotime, and Daboya — can be marketed under the name “Kente.”
The launch ceremony, held at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra, was organized by the Registrar-General’s Department in collaboration with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Officials described the achievement as a historic step toward safeguarding Ghana’s indigenous craftsmanship and boosting the value of locally made textiles on the international market.
Protecting Heritage, Empowering Artisans
By securing Geographical Indication status, Ghana has given Kente legal protection against imitation and misuse. The move is expected to open up economic opportunities for local weavers, enhance exports, and strengthen Ghana’s identity as a hub for authentic African creativity.
Cultural authorities hailed the milestone as both an economic and symbolic victory. “This recognition ensures that Kente remains uniquely Ghanaian — woven with meaning, history, and pride,” said Richardson Commey Fio, Special Assistant to the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture.
Kente now joins the ranks of other globally protected cultural products such as Champagne (France), Tequila (Mexico), and Darjeeling Tea (India) — all safeguarded under international GI frameworks that link authenticity to place of origin.
A New Era for Ghanaian Fashion and Innovation
Beyond its traditional prestige, Kente continues to inspire modern designers and tech-driven fashion entrepreneurs across Africa. The recognition is expected to drive innovation within Ghana’s creative economy, strengthen tourism, and encourage cross-sector collaborations between culture, fashion, and digital markets.
This milestone reaffirms Ghana’s leadership in preserving cultural heritage while promoting sustainable creative industries under the UNESCO 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage.