Hair braiding
African hair braiding can be traced back as far as the 3500 BC in Egypt. It is an ancient art that is still very prevalent today.
Braiding is typically a women's hair art form but in certain areas men also used to wear these styles however In this generation that is very rare.
Braiding has through the years developed into complex patterns that everyone can do. In the past, certain braiding styles were reserved for ceremonial occasions such as weddings. Some complex braiding patterns portrayed one's social status, age group and village affiliation.
I have been getting my hair braided from a very young age. In rural areas, young girls have their hair braided by relatives such as mother or sisters. The girls therefore learn by watching then later learns by doing by practicing on younger girls.
Due to urbanisation and industrialisation, hair braiding has in part been turned over to professional hair dressers in salons which have become a common place in Africa's urban areas.
Creating complex braiding styles can be a time consuming activity. I have spent an entire day at the salon just to get my hair braids done. Some styles can even take longer than one day to finish. I must admit the long wait is worth it in the end!!
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