By Samuel Akumatey, GNA
Kpetoe, Oct. 21 GNA- Mr Charles Agbeve, Member of Parliament for Agortime Ziope Constituency in the Volta Region has challenged Kente weavers to push their creativity and produce unique designs to give the fabric more international appeal.
He said creativity held the key to the development of the textile, and added that complexity of its designs would make them patentable and help build strong brands.
Me Agbeve was speaking to the media on the side of a weaving competition at Kpetoe which formed part of the 2018 Agbamevorza (Kente Festival) of the people of Agortime in the Agortime Ziofe District.
He said it was necessary to provide museums, galleries and trade events in the kente village to enhance its promotion.
Mr Agbeve supported the contest by awarding a cash prize of 5000 cedis to the winner and underscored the need to encourage more women weavers.
He further expressed hope that the revised copyright law would cover all intellectual interests and encourage more creativity.
The MP mentioned plans to provide educational and skill training support for the youth, and also to help advance the weaving craft.
He further said that the contest was the main attraction of the festival, and must therefore be highlighted to challenge the craftsmanship of Kente weavers.
A total of 18 weavers, including three women competed for best weaver and speed.
Bless Dogbey, 18 year Junior High School student emerged winner with a design which he told the Ghana News Agency he had received in a vision and promised to invest the cash prize in advancing his skills in the craft.
Mr Maxwell Blagodzi, Deputy Volta Regional Minister said Kente weaving was an art that must be preserved.
The festival which was climaxed with a durbar attracted tourists across the world.
KK/AD
