Kente cloth, with its origins among the Akan people of Ghana, comes in various types, each with distinctive patterns, colors, and names. The types of Kente often have specific meanings, symbolizing concepts, historical events, proverbs, moral values, social codes, and more. Here are some of the traditional types of Kente:

  1. Ewe Kente: The Ewe people, who are found in southeastern Ghana, have their own unique style of Kente weaving. Ewe Kente often incorporates pictorial symbols and is generally characterized by its symbolic and narrative designs. It can be quite different from the Akan Kente, as it tends to use more subtle colors and less geometrical patterns.

  2. Asante Kente: Also known as Ashanti Kente, it is made by the Asante (or Ashanti) people, and it is the type most commonly recognized as Kente. The Asante Kente is known for its bright colors and bold, multi-patterned designs. Each design is carefully constructed, with the patterns holding specific meanings.

  3. Adwinasa: This type is considered one of the most detailed and elaborate. The name translates to "all motifs are used up," indicating the complexity and intricacy of the design. It often carries a high level of prestige.

  4. Oyokoman: Named after the Oyoko clan, one of the Akan clans, this type of Kente is said to have been one of the first Kente patterns developed. The pattern is historically significant and is often associated with royalty.

  5. Akyem: This type of Kente is less common and is known for its unique patterns associated with the Akyem people of Ghana. It often has bright, multicolored patterns similar to those of the Asante Kente but with different symbolic meanings.

  6. Fathia Fata Nkrumah: A relatively modern pattern, it was designed to commemorate the marriage of Ghana's first president, Kwame Nkrumah, and his wife, Fathia. This type of Kente is often used for special occasions and celebrations.

  7. Binada: Sometimes referred to as "Binadu," these patterns are known for their simple, yet elegant designs. The name translates to "no one points to his father's house with his left finger," which is a proverb suggesting one should not denigrate their heritage.

The colors in Kente cloth also carry meaning. Here are some examples:

  • Black: maturity, intense spiritual energy, mourning, and funeral rites
  • Blue: peacefulness, harmony, and love
  • Green: vegetation, planting, harvesting, growth, spiritual renewal
  • Gold: royalty, wealth, high status, glory, spiritual purity
  • Grey: healing and cleansing rituals, associated with ash
  • Maroon: the color of mother earth, associated with healing
  • Pink: femininity, mildness
  • Purple: earth, healing, and the power of women
  • Red: political and spiritual associations, bloodshed, sacrificial rites and death
  • Silver: serenity, purity, joy; associated with the moon
  • White: purification, sanctification rites and festive occasions
  • Yellow: preciousness, royalty, wealth, fertility, beauty

The actual Kente cloth worn depends on the occasion and the status of the person wearing it. While there are numerous specific patterns within these types, the beauty of Kente comes from both the visual impact of its colors and designs as well as the depth of its cultural symbolism.