The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has presented two historically significant and symbolic kente cloths to Ghana’s Parliament, a gesture that blends national history, unity, and wisdom.
The presentation followed a request from Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, who informed the Asantehene that the framed kente cloths previously displayed in the parliamentary chamber had become worn out and needed to be replaced.
During the visit Manhyia Palace on October 15, the Speaker’s delegation sought the King’s permission to remove the old kente frames as part of ongoing renovation works in the chamber.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II gifted Parliament two kente designs, Fatia Fata Nkrumah and Adwinie si Adwinie so, each carrying deep cultural and historical meaning.
The new framed cloths were unveiled in Parliament’s newly refurbished chamber when the House resumed sitting on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.
Fatia Fata Nkrumah
The first cloth, Fatia Fata Nkrumah, was woven in honour of Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, and his Egyptian wife, Fathia Nkrumah.
The phrase translates from Akan as “Fathia is a fitting wife for Nkrumah.”
Beyond celebrating their union, the pattern symbolises unity, collaboration, and the harmony that sustains a nation.
The marriage between Kwame Nkrumah and Fathia was regarded as a powerful political and cultural statement, representing solidarity between Africa and the Arab world.
The kente pattern that emerged from this union became a woven metaphor for cooperation and national pride.
Before it acquired its famous name, the design was known as Baako Mmu Man, meaning “one person does not govern a nation” signifying that leadership thrives on inclusivity and shared responsibility, not individual dominance.
Typically woven in vibrant shades of gold, black, and green, Fatia Fata Nkrumah embodies prosperity, power, and life.
Adwinie si Adwinie so
The second cloth, Adwinie si Adwinie so (Dwini so dwin or Edwene si dwene so) translates to “design upon design” or “wisdom upon wisdom.”
The name reflects the Akan appreciation for complexity, creativity, and depth of thought.
The cloth celebrates the mental craftsmanship that goes into achieving excellence, whether in weaving or leadership.
The pattern gained wider recognition in recent years through its association with veteran Ghanaian media personality and royal, Oheneyere Gifty Anti.
During the 2018 Kente Festival in Bonwire, the birthplace of kente, she was presented with a specially woven version of the Dwini so dwin design by master weavers as a mark of respect for her influence and contribution to Ghanaian culture.
This design is known for its highly detailed motifs and its demanding weaving process, which requires exceptional skill and patience.
It represents wisdom, distinction, and the elevated status of the wearer.
It is often reserved for important occasions such as royal ceremonies, weddings, and major state functions.
The donation of these two cloths, one celebrating unity and the other celebrating wisdom, carries serves as reminders of the values that guide national leadership.
Displayed in Parliament’s chamber, the cloths signify Ghana’s political history, artistic culture, and moral wisdom, blending the legacy of Nkrumah’s vision with the Asante tradition.
