Red brandable cotton lesos

Beyond its use as a colorful textile, the khanga acts as a powerful, subtle medium of communication for Swahili women. Each specific saying or proverb (jina) allows the wearer to express personal feelings, send messages to friends or rivals, or comment on social norms without speaking directly. For example, a woman might wear a kanga with the message "Msilolijua litawasumbua" ("You will be troubled with what you have no knowledge of"). Khangas are often given as significant ceremonial gifts at weddings, births, and other life events, and are typically sold in matching