Volta Regional Minister unveils plan to make Kente official Friday wear for Assembly staff

The Volta Regional Minister, Hon. James Gunu, has announced a bold new initiative to designate Kente as the official Friday attire for staff at the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC) and all Municipal and District Assemblies across the region.

The announcement was made at the launch of the 2025 Kente Festival in Aflao, located in the Ketu South Municipality. The initiative aims to promote the region’s rich cultural identity while boosting the Kente weaving industry, especially in Agortime and surrounding communities renowned for their craftsmanship.

Hon. Gunu praised the distinctiveness of Agortime Kente and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preserving and advancing the traditional craft. “I personally love wearing Kente. It is my favourite fabric,” he said, underscoring his personal dedication to the cause.

He revealed that the government would earmark a portion of the Assemblies Common Fund to support Kente weavers. Additionally, part of the 24-hour economy initiative will fund the completion of the long-abandoned Kente Village project—an NDC-era development intended to serve as a hub for artisans to display their skills and grow the industry.

The announcement was warmly received by stakeholders. Mr. Proper Kporku, Chairman of the Kente Weavers Association, and Dr. Dela Mawutor, a member of the Central Planning Committee, lauded the move and called for collective efforts to uplift the Agortime Kente brand. They urged both public and private sector actors to invest in the growth of the industry.

Hon. Charles Akwasi Agbeve, MP for Agortime-Ziope, stressed the importance of obtaining copyright protection for the iconic fabric to safeguard its authenticity and prevent counterfeiting. He noted that UNESCO’s recognition of Kente as a cultural heritage underscores the need for protective legal frameworks.

Promoting Kente weaving is expected to stimulate the local economy, creating jobs and attracting young people to the trade. Despite its cultural and economic value, the industry has struggled with insufficient support, leading some artisans to abandon the craft in search of other livelihoods.

Mr. Reuben Akuffo, Chief Director of the Agortime-Ziope District Assembly, pledged the Assembly’s full backing for efforts to revitalize the sector. He welcomed collaboration with stakeholders and reaffirmed the Assembly’s readiness to help restore Kente weaving as a pillar of regional development.

The 2025 Kente Festival will serve as a cultural platform to celebrate heritage, empower artisans, and promote Volta’s identity as the heartland of Ghana’s Kente tradition.