The Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council has officially announced the celebration of Ashanti Kente Week, a week-long cultural initiative aimed at promoting the region’s rich heritage and the globally celebrated Kente cloth.
The celebration, scheduled to run from today Monday, March 23 to Tuesday, March 31, 2026, forms part of activities marking Ghana Month and the broader AshantiFest 2026.
The initiative underscores the importance of preserving indigenous traditions while fostering pride in local craftsmanship.
In a press release issued in Kumasi and signed by the Chief Director, Michael Owusu Amoako, on behalf of the Regional Minister, the Council emphasized that the Kente cloth remains a powerful symbol of identity, history, and artistry among the Ashanti people and Ghana at large.
According to the statement, all government institutions, corporate organizations, and public service establishments within the region have been encouraged to actively participate by incorporating Kente into their attire throughout the week. This may include wearing full Kente cloth or integrating Kente-inspired designs into everyday clothing such as scarves, ties, ribbons, lapel pins, and other accessories.
Religious institutions have also been invited to join the celebration. Churches, mosques, and other faith-based organizations are expected to encourage their congregants to adorn themselves in Kente or Kente-inspired outfits during services within the designated period. The Council further suggested that these institutions may climax their participation between Friday, March 27 and Sunday, March 29, depending on their respective worship schedules.
A major highlight of the celebration will be the grand durbar slated for Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at the iconic Kumasi Cultural Centre. The event, organized in collaboration with the Manhyia Palace, is expected to feature a rich lineup of cultural displays, including traditional performances, a food fair, and a vibrant music and jama festival.
Organizers say the climax event will serve as a platform to showcase the depth of Ashanti culture—its history, cuisine, music, and artistic excellence—while also providing economic opportunities for local artisans and traders.
The Council has called on all residents and institutions to participate actively in the celebration, noting that such collective efforts are crucial in promoting cultural identity and supporting the growth of local industries tied to traditional crafts.
Ashanti Kente Week is expected to not only strengthen cultural pride among citizens but also position the region as a leading hub for cultural tourism in Ghana.
As anticipation builds, stakeholders remain optimistic that the initiative will leave a lasting impact, reinforcing the value of tradition in modern society while celebrating one of Ghana’s most iconic cultural symbols—the timeless Kente cloth.
