A qualitative inquiry into kete weaving as a developing culture in the Akatsi district

Abstract

In Ghana, Kente or Kete weaving is known to be done predominantly in areas of Bonwire, Ashanti Region and Agotime, Volta Region however the art is gradually gaining prominence in other communities in the Volta Region. This paper investigates and documents Kete weaving as a developing culture within the Akatsi District in the Volta Region of Ghana through a qualitative inquiry. The study focused on the history, production and marketing of the art using narrative and descriptive designs and thematic analysis approaches. Using the purposive sampling method, a total of 20 respondents constituting elders, weavers and cloth sellers participated in the study. The study found that the origin of Kete weaving has no roots in the Akatsi District however the art is fast growing as an occupation among the male youth in the district whereas the females, both young and old en.gage in trading the woven fabric and its accessories. Sadly, the future of this occupation is blurred as the ingenious weavers are faced with challenges including a lack of capital and infrastructure to industrialise their craft. Through the findings, this paper establishes that the art of Kete weaving in the Akatsi District is a fertile industry that when expanded and sustained can help create more jobs, thus reducing the poverty rate and improving the standard of living. The Commission for Technical and Vocational Educational Training (CTVET) needs to provide the weavers with additional training on creativity for a wider market target. It is recommended that the Government of Ghana through the Akatsi District Assembly provide infrastructure and financial support for the weavers. Private investors within the fashion industry are entreated to extend their business acumen towards the weavers for expansion.