The Archaeology Department of the University of Ghana, Legon on Friday mounted an exhibition in Accra to showcase Ghanaian textiles.

The exhibition which spans over a period of six months is in collaboration with the British Museum, UK with support from the British Council, Accra and is on the theme: "The fabric of a nation: Textiles and identity in Ghana" to mark the 50th anniversary of Ghana’s independence.

It will display the richness and diversity in design, as well as the function and meaning of hand-woven and printed textiles with which, groups of Ghanaians distinguish themselves.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Minister for Chieftaincy and Culture, S. K. Boafo said, "Fabrics, apart from protecting the human body also perform a great variety of functions in African societies and in Ghana in particular."

"They are used to distinguish status and identity and also identify the Ghanaian from other nationals," he added.

He said it was gratifying to note that the Archaeology Department "was not at this time digging to find historical fabrics but preserving our fabrics in its varying forms for posterity to appreciate our way of life in the area of our different fabrics."

He further called on all institutions charged with the preservation and maintenance of our culture to work in synergy to build a comprehensive programme to conserve and promote our heritage.

Source: The Ghanaian Times