Ghana’s globally celebrated cultural fabric, Kente, has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the nation’s first officially registered Geographical Indication (GI) product.
The announcement was made at a launch ceremony held at the La-Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra, organised by the Registrar General’s Department in collaboration with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).
Global Protection for Ghana’s Cultural Heritage
A Geographical Indication (GI) is an intellectual property right that links a product to its geographical origin, ensuring that its quality, reputation, and authenticity are directly tied to the place it comes from.
This means Kente will now enjoy the same kind of legal and market protection that global cultural treasures like Champagne (France), Tequila (Mexico), and Darjeeling Tea (India) receive. For Ghana, it solidifies Kente as authentically and exclusively Ghanaian, shielding it from imitations while elevating its brand value on the world stage.
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Economic and Cultural Impact
Officials highlighted that the recognition will not only safeguard Kente’s authenticity but also create new economic opportunities for weavers, artisans, and local communities. By opening doors to wider international markets, the GI status is expected to boost Ghana’s creative economy and expand income streams for those who sustain the centuries-old craft.
The milestone builds on Ghana’s growing cultural achievements, following Kente’s inscription on the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in December last year.
Reactions From Stakeholders
Richardson Commey Fio, Special Assistant to the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, described the moment as historic and deeply rewarding.
“It was refreshing and nostalgic for me to be part of this all-important event, to witness the end product of what we have supported with our expertise for the past seven years,” he said.
A Global Stage for Kente
With the GI recognition, Kente is set to stand taller as a global cultural brand, ensuring buyers worldwide can trust its origin and authenticity while reinforcing Ghana’s reputation as a hub of creativity and tradition.
