Ghana’s first documentary film, ‘The Importance of Kente to Ghanaians & Black Africans,’ was premiered at the Harvard Kennedy School on1 February 2024.
The film, the brainchild of award winning journalist, Amma Prempeh, was screened to recognize the coming of Black History Month, winding around a rich embroidery of history, artistry, culture, and political issues around the traditional Ghanaian material – Kente.
As a royal garment, Kente has transformed into a global emblem of political opposition and fortitude among rights activists. The film explores more about this fabric or textile – from its foundations in the Ashanti Kingdom to its global reception as an image of African identity.
It highlights the significant impact Kente has had on worldwide politics, filling in as an affirmation of pride and opposition notwithstanding adversity.
The documentary was first premiered at the Golden Eagle Cinema in Kumasi City Mall on 26 August 2023. Its Harvard screening was part of the ‘Africa Caucus Around The Fire Policy Series,’ hosted by the Africa Caucus and Black Students Union.
The event also featured a provocative back and forth discussion where participants dug into the cultural importance and ramifications of Kente.
Serwaa Amihere’s New Role As The Ambassador Of Kente
To celebrate the premiering proper, Prempeh circulated free booklets and bags. These were printed by Mr. Richard Osei Boateng of PrintImpressionz, embracing the energetic tints and mind boggling examples of Kente.
The guesture filled in as an unmistakable sign of the film’s central theme, further establishing the cultural significance of Kente.
At the same time, the world of sports also echoed the celebration of African roots. The Vancouver Canucks, a professional ice hockey team, revealed a new ‘Black Excellence’ jersey and logo.
Designed by artist Naa Sheka, the shirt or jersey gives proper respect to Ghana’s national colours – Red, Gold, And Green.
The logo, propelled by traditional West African Kente textiles, celebrates the collective spirit of the African diaspora. The jersey is available for sale, symbolising special occasions, honours, and achievements within the community.
credit: asaaseradio.com
