A kikoi is a traditional rectangle of woven cloth originating from Africa. Considered a part of Swahili culture, the kikoi is mostly worn by the coastal men but now includes the Maasai people of Kenya [1] as well as men from Tanzania and Zanzibar. It is most commonly viewed a type of sarong.
Description
editThe kikoi is made of cotton and patterns are woven rather than dyed into the fabric.[1] As with all sarongs, it is a single piece of cloth which is wrapped around the waist, and rolled over outwards a couple of times. Outside of their intended use as a sarong, they can be used as a sling to hold a baby, towel, or a head wrap.
History
editThe kikoi emerged from cultural exchange between East Africans and their trading partners from nations like Somalia centuries ago.[2][3] The garment remains a popular souvenir for tourists visiting Kenya. [4]
Trademark controversy
editReferences
edit- ^ a b BU African Studies Library (9 December 2019). "African Textile Collection". Storymaps.ArcGIS.com. Retrieved 11 October 2020.
- ^ "Traditional Kenyan cloth becomes focus of trademark controversy". Reuters. Retrieved 12 October 2020.
- ^ Morris, Bernadine (1987). "Versatility in a Wrap Handmade in Kenya". The New York Times. The New York Times. Retrieved 11 October 2020.
- ^ Perry, Alex. "Nairobi: Finding the Perfect Souvenir". Time. Retrieved 11 October 2020.