The Speedbird Ankara Print- Sika Wo Ntaban

 

The classic Speedbird Ankara print has got to be one of my favourites of all time. Available in almost every colour combination imaginable. Check out our Pinterest board where we save our favourite fashion pieces that use the fabric in modern and interesting ways.

 

As you would have come to realise African fabric tends to incorporate patterns and symbols which have interpretations and meanings. The same applies for this print which has also gained more over its years in existence. Here are some of them.

THE MEANINGS BEHIND THE SYMBOL

Hirondelle: This is the french word for the Swallow bird. Swallows are a symbol of good luck.

In Togo the pattern was nicknamed ‘Air Afrique’ because the fabric was, at one time, used in the uniform of the local airline company in the 70’s.

Sika Wo Antaban means ‘Money has Wings’. In Ghana the pattern refers to the transience of riches: rich today, poor tomorrow, for money, if one is not careful, will fly away like a bird. This fabric encourages people to make good financial investments.

The Igbo people of Nigeria call the print ‘Eneke’ referencing a proverb from famous Nigerian author Chinua Achebe’s ‘Things Fall Apart’, where he explains that “Eneke the bird says that since men have learned to shoot without missing, he has learned to fly without perching.”

Below are the colour combinations we have in stock. You can purchase by the Yard by simple clicking on the image of the design you like.

 

If you’re a fan of the Speedbird Ankara print have used it in your designs, please share a link! Check out our other prints on www.urbanstax.com/shop

Sources

1. Madam tay: http://madame-tay.blogspot.co.uk/2013/12/print-stories-hirondelle.html
2. Stlye Me Ankara: http://stylemeankara.ca/blogs/news/18187895-name-that-print
3. All Things Amma Mama: http://allthingsammamama.com/2015/12/cloth-meaning-sika-wo-ntaban/