One Africa – Adinkra – Ghana - Apron

Adinkra are visual symbols carrying historical, cultural and philosophical meanings. Traditionally printed onto cloth for important occasions, Adinkra originated among the Akan peoples of Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, with roots in the historic Gyaman kingdom. Today, Adinkra symbols have found their way into contemporary art, fashion, design, architecture and everyday life around the world. Many of these symbols express ideas about wisdom, unity, strength, community and human values. For this design, I have selected Adinkra symbols that speak to a simple conviction: For Africa to thrive, all 55 nations need to stand together. Drawing on symbols whose roots reach back to the pre-colonial history of West Africa, this design is intended as a call for African unity — and for an Africa that recognises the strength of standing together. Africa’s time is now! Let’s make it happen!