Senegalese Kaftan

The kaftan is also a pullover in a men’s wardrobe, which has long sleeves. The robe is named sabador, in Wolof language. In French the same one is named boubou. This boubou is a common name that is also used by people from Sahara and Arab countries, which believe in Islam. Boubou is commonly used around other languages like Susu, Maninkakan, Bambaran and Dioula.

There are many types of kaftan and the Senegalese kaftan is one of the most popular. This type of kaftan is long, reaching the ankles. It is made out of cotton lace, brocade or other synthetic fabrics. The robe is very popular all around Africa and Arabia. It is worn with big jewelries, in many colors and many officials used to wear it. For example, the ex President of Sierra Leone, named Ahmed Kabbah, has been seen wearing a kaftan many times.

The kaftan and also the matching pants are named a kaftan suit. This suit can also be worn with a cap. The kaftans have slowly become a formal wear in the African countries. It is the equivalent of the American tuxedo and having one represents a big accomplishment. There are many styles in which one can be worn. One other style is the dashiki set and also the grand boubou. There are also many other robes being worn in formal meetings, in many regions.

Usually in the Islamic countries this robe is very famous. But there are also African Jews, Muslims and Christians wearing it when the occasion requires it. There are also many African tribes that consider this garment a royal textile. In Senegal it is very famous. In all these countries the robe is worn by men and women all together, with differences in styles and colors, depending on the occasion. This is the short history of the Senegalese kaftan.