Amma Prempeh (L) with Ashanti Regional Minister Frank Amoakohene (R)
Ghana’s Kente Ambassador, Amma Prempeh, has reacted to the renowned handwoven textile, Kente’s earns the recognition as a Geographical Indication (GI) status.
This marks a historic and transformative milestone as the nation’s first-ever GI product.
The feat was officially announced at the launch, held on September 30, 2025, at the La-Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra, representing a major step forward for the country’s cultural and creative arts sector.
A Geographical Indication is an intellectual property right that legally ties a product to its origin, guaranteeing that its quality, reputation, or other characteristics are essentially attributable to that geographical place.
The art behind weaving Kente in Ghana
This international protection is expected to translate into stronger brand value and greater economic opportunities for local weavers and communities.
Kente now stands alongside globally protected treasures like Champagne, Tequila, and Darjeeling tea.
In reaction to this momentous development, Ghana’s Kente Ambassador, Amma Prempeh, described the achievement as a profound victory for the nation and the entire continent of Africa.
“As Ghana’s Kente Ambassador, I view the official recognition of Kente as the country’s first Geographical Indication (GI) as both a historic and transformative milestone. This is more than a legal stamp — it is a powerful declaration to the world that Kente is not just a fabric, but a living heritage, woven with the identity, stories, and spirit of the Ghanaian people,” Amma Prempeh said in a brief interview with Ghanaweb on October 3, 2025.
Decoding the cultural significance, symbolisms in the kente cloth Dr Amoakohene wore for his vetting
Ambassador Prempeh emphasised the cultural significance of the fabric, stating, “Kente is the soul of our tradition, a symbol of prestige, wisdom, and unity. For centuries, its patterns and colors have spoken volumes — now, with GI status, it gains international legal protection and recognition, ensuring that the legacy of authentic Ghanaian Kente remains in the hands of those who have nurtured it for generations.”
She explained the tangible benefits of the GI status, noting that this achievement “is a victory for our weavers, our cultural custodians, and every Ghanaian who wears Kente with pride. It opens doors for economic growth, tourism, intellectual property protection, and global branding, while safeguarding the artistry and integrity of indigenous craftsmanship.”
Amma Prempeh also reflected on her own contributions to the Kente narrative, stating, “I am deeply filled with emotions that my Ghana’s first kente culture story documentary film – The Importance of Kente to Ghanaians and Black Africans was part of the movement from August 26, 2023 to date in helping to firmly put Kente on the map internationally.”
Amma Prempeh pledged her commitment to the weaving communities, particularly those in Bonwire, where the art is concentrated.
“As Ambassador, I am deeply committed to ensuring this recognition translates into real benefits for our weaving communities, especially in Bonwire and beyond. Let this serve as a call to all Ghanaians — to wear our heritage boldly, to support local artisans, and to tell the story of Kente wherever we go. This is not just a win for Ghana — it is a win for Africa,” she asserted.
The official GI status is expected to significantly boost the global market appeal of authentic Ghanaian Kente, providing a shield against imitation and ensuring that the economic rewards benefit the local communities who have preserved this intricate art form for centuries.
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