Kanga

We learn every day. And I love it.

Today I learned about Kanga

Kanga is a traditional Kenyan cloth. It’s usually rectangular and the dimensions vary, but often always is 150cm by 110cm.

The Kanga is used in different ways and this is a matter of choice. Some use it as a scarf, others as a wrap around the shoulders and/or shawl. Some people use it as a tie cloth like a skirt.

The common thing about the Kanga is the inscription or quote that always comes with it. This is referred to as ‘Jina’. The Jina is often a riddle, proverb or any other kind of message.

Some people have used the Kanga as a means of passing messages (Political, traditional or religious).

I got my first Kanga today as a gift from a friend who lives in Nairobi, so I decided to find out what it was.

The write up on my Kanga reads; TUWE NA HAIBA TUPENSEZE DAIMA.

I checked a translation online and it tells me to always be charming and Believe. I hope it translates right.

I love my Kanga