The people and traditional authorities of Bonwire, the historic home of Ghana’s iconic Kente cloth, have honoured Amma Prempeh, widely known as the Kente Ambassador and producer of Ghana’s first Kente Culture Story documentary, with a rare and symbolic Kente cloth known as “Ɛyɛ Soronko”, literally translated in Asante Twi as “Unique Kente.”
The prestigious presentation was in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the promotion, preservation, and global elevation of Bonwire Kente, a fabric that remains one of Ghana’s most revered cultural treasures and a powerful symbol of African identity worldwide.
A Kente of Distinction and Rarity
“Ɛyɛ Soronko” is a special Kente design reserved for moments and individuals of exceptional merit. According to elders of Bonwire, the cloth is woven to signify singularity, rarity, and unmatched impact, qualities they believe Amma Prempeh has demonstrated through her tireless work in telling the authentic story of Kente to the world.
The cloth bears close resemblance to “Ɛmaa da”, the rare Kente fabric gifted by His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, to the Prime Minister of Barbados, a design whose name translates as “First of its kind” or “Never seen before.”
Both cloths embody innovation rooted in tradition and are symbolic of moments that mark history.
By conferring “Ɛyɛ Soronko” on Amma Prempeh, the chiefs and people of Bonwire affirmed her place among a select group of individuals whose work has left an indelible mark on the legacy of Kente.
It is also worthy to note that henceforth, this particular cloth will be specifically associated with Amma Prempeh.
Anyone who visits Bonwire or chooses the “Ɛyɛ Soronko”, (Unique Kente), will receive the special type of kente, woven in honour of Amma Prempeh.
“It was named Unique Kente because it was specially made for her. Anyone who wishes to purchase it should simply request Nana Amma Prempeh’s Kente,” President of the Bonwire weavers Association stated.
Recognising a Cultural Torchbearer
Amma Prempeh has emerged as one of Ghana’s most influential cultural advocates, using media, film, and storytelling to preserve indigenous knowledge and elevate Ghanaian heritage on global platforms.
Her groundbreaking documentary on Kente has not only documented the origins, philosophy, symbolism, and craftsmanship of the cloth but has also drawn international attention to Bonwire, the birthplace of Kente weaving.
Traditional leaders described her work as transformational, noting that it has helped reposition Bonwire Kente not merely as a ceremonial fabric, but as a living cultural heritage deserving of global respect, protection, and investment.
A Call for Support for Bonwire Weavers
In her acceptance remarks, a visibly grateful Amma Prempeh expressed heartfelt appreciation to the queen of bonwire, Nana Nyarko Frimpomaa II, Nana Kentehene, Nana Kentehemaa, royal chiefs, elders, and people of Bonwire for the honour bestowed upon her.
She described the “Eye Soronko” Kente as deeply meaningful, stating that it represents not just recognition, but responsibility.
Using the moment to amplify the concerns of the weaving community, she made a passionate appeal to the state, private institutions, philanthropists, and well-meaning individuals to come to the aid of Bonwire Kente weavers.
She highlighted the urgent need for:
* a modern weaving workshop, and
* a yarn factory to support local production,
noting that the absence of these facilities has long been a major challenge affecting productivity, sustainability, and the livelihoods of weavers in the community.
According to her, investing in these critical needs would help preserve the craft, reduce production costs, empower young weavers, and ensure that Bonwire remains the authentic source of Kente in an increasingly competitive global market.
A Global Call to Patronise Bonwire Kente
Amma Prempeh also called on people around the world to deliberately purchase Kente directly from Bonwire, stressing that such patronage directly supports the weavers and sustains the cultural ecosystem surrounding Kente production.
She reaffirmed her commitment to continue serving as a global ambassador for Kente, pledging to use her voice, platforms, and networks to advocate for the protection of intellectual property, fair trade practices, and increased international recognition for Bonwire Kente.
Preserving Heritage, Inspiring the Future
The honour bestowed on Amma Prempeh underscores a growing recognition of the role modern storytellers and cultural advocates play in safeguarding traditional heritage.
It also reflects Bonwire’s appreciation of individuals who not only celebrate Kente aesthetically but also work to secure its future for generations yet unborn.
As Ghana continues to assert its cultural identity on the global stage, the story of “Ɛyɛ Soronko” and the woman who received it stands as a powerful reminder that heritage thrives when tradition and purposeful advocacy meet.
