DIFFERENT NAMES GIVEN TO CAPULANAS

At Mwani, we have deep connections with Mozambique, which is why we use the name "Capulana". However, the truth is that this vibrant fabric is used in many African cultures and countries, and in each of them it has a unique name.

Today, we are going to share some of these names so that you can get to know the rich history of capulanas even better.

Bold and colorful, the Samakaka fabric is traditional in Angola. Although it is produced in various color combinations, the most common print uses black, red and white – the colors of the Angolan flag. Black represents the African continent, red the bloodshed of the liberation struggle and yellow the country's wealth. With geometric shapes rooted in traditional symbols, the Samakaka has an important cultural value and is used in weddings, funerals and commemorative celebrations, as well as being part of the daily clothing of many Angolans.

In Botswana, the Leteise (or Letoitse) fabric is the most widely used and is known for its geometric patterns. Traditionally, the fabric was worn by women as aprons with matching headscarves, but today it is also common to see men wearing clothing made from Leteise. Although indigo used to be the most common color, today it is found in many colors and patterns. Additionally, Batswana women often wear the mogagolwane, a checkered blanket, as a symbol of social status, indicating that they are married.

The Basotho women of Lesotho and the Xhosa women of South Africa also use Leteise as a cultural fabric – but they call it by names like Shweshwe and Ujamani, respectively.

Kanga - Kenya

In Kenya it is known as "kanga". This colorful fabric is widely used by women to dress and carry children on their backs, among other functions. The kanga is similar to the capulana, but has its own characteristics that reflect Kenyan culture.

Kente - Ghana

Originating from the Akan people of Ghana, Kente is a colorful fabric, traditionally hand-woven on narrow looms. Each pattern and color has a specific meaning, reflecting proverbs, historical events or personal feelings. Initially reserved for royalty, today it is used in important ceremonies, symbolizing wealth and cultural pride.

Adire is a traditional fabric of the Yoruba people in Nigeria, created using resist dyeing techniques such as tie-dye. The resulting patterns range from simple to highly complex, being used in cultural events and symbolizing Yoruba artistry and ingenuity.

Pagne - West Africa (Congo, Senegal)

In West Africa, especially in Congo and Senegal, the fabric is called "pagne". The pagne is used in a similar way to the capulana and the kanga, serving to dress, cover and carry items. Each region reflects its own traditions and meanings in the use of this fabric.

Shweshwe - South Africa

In South Africa, especially among the Xhosa communities, the fabric is known as "Shweshwe". This is a printed cotton with distinct geometric patterns and is used in both traditional and modern clothing.

Baoule Cloth - Ivory Coast

Originating from the Baoule people, this fabric is characterized by colorful stripes and unique patterns. Traditionally used in ceremonial attire, Baoule Cloth is a symbol of status and wealth.

Barkcloth - Uganda

This ancient Ugandan fabric is made from the inner bark of the Mutuba tree. Produced using traditional techniques, Barkcloth is used in ceremonies and as a symbol of respect for the deceased, in addition to being recognized for its sustainable production process.

Batik - Indonesia

Although not African, it is relevant to mention the Indonesian "Batik", a fabric dyeing technique that influenced African cloths. The technique was brought to Africa by Dutch colonizers and adapted to the African context, resulting in the fabrics we know today

Known as Ankara or African Wax Print, this fabric is famous for its vibrant colors and distinctive patterns. Although it has origins in the Indonesian batik technique, it has been adopted and adapted by several African countries, becoming a symbol of fashion and cultural identity.

Toghu - Cameroon

Also known as Atoghu, this royal fabric from northwest Cameroon is traditionally worn by nobility during important ceremonies. Distinguished by its embroidered designs on a dark velvet background, the Toghu has become a symbol of Cameroonian cultural identity.

These names and their variations reflect the cultural and historical diversity of the African continent. Each name represents the adaptation and incorporation of the fabric into the daily lives and cultural practices of different peoples. At Mwani Store, we work with the capulana from Mozambique, bringing its vibrant colors and unique history to the modern world. And although the name may vary, the beauty and cultural richness remain the same.