The Agortime Kente festival, a renowned international celebration held annually in Ghana and Togo, has made a triumphant return after a five-year hiatus due to COVID-19 and the passing of the third Konor. The 29th edition, themed "Repositioning the Kente Heritage for inclusive development," focused on reflection, rejuvenation, and business empowerment.
The festival showcased the exceptional quality and rich cultural significance of Kente, also known as "Agbamevor." However, the proliferation of Kente has led to a loss of market value, prompting concerns about the need to protect the intellectual property rights of Master Weavers. As noted by the attendees and planing committee "Kente should not be sold cheaply; it requires creativity, effort, and time to produce."
To address this, Hon. Charles Agbeve, MP for Agortime -Ziope constituency promised to initiate steps to protect the intellectual property rights of Master Weavers. The Chairman of the Kente weaving competition, Mr. Israel Kporku, also disclosed plans to register new designs and acquire copyrights added that quiz competition will be added to the weaving competition to make more attractive more competitive among the young one appealed to the diaspora investors to extend support to the Agortime.
The District Chief Executive, Hon. Emilia Emefa Adzimah, highlighted the theme's significance in creating a sense of belonging and shared identity through cultural artifacts. She emphasized the potential for sustainable livelihoods, local economic stimulation, and poverty reduction.
The District Chief Executive (DCE) extended an invitation to investors and the public to partner with the district in revamping the Kente industry in Agortime. This initiative aims to create job opportunities for the youth and stimulate socio-economic development for the local population.
She further highlighted the current state of the KenteHub, saying, "It is in a deplorable state, and urged investors to come on board to revamp it. "This will not only promote our arts, crafts, and culture but also facilitate international exchange programs, attracting tourists to the district and boosting the local economy."
The Konor of Agortime, Nene Nuer Keteku IV, stressed the importance of unity and collective interest, saying, "Everyone is born as an individual, but a natural gift that enables us to survive is the belief of communality where we are one people with a collective interest and heritage."
By Evans Attah Akangla Agortime Kpetoe
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