The Kanga of Zanzibar

Slavery is an ugly thing.  Clothing for slaves was even worse.

The women of Zanzibar wrapped themselves in plain white cheap cotton cloth while they were in captivity.

Once they were free, the women began decorating their garments with hand painted designs inspired by the clothing of free Swahili women.

  

They painted their clothing to let the world know that they were free.

Did you know that the "official" outdoor garment for village women in Zanzibar is the Kanga?  Traditional clothing is what makes each country unique. I am envious.