It is called a Kikwembe in Swahili, DRC. It is also called Pagne or Pagne Africain in French, DRC. But in Zambia it is called a Chitenge. My family is ethnically Zambian, but most of my dad's siblings were born and/ or grew up in DRC (Democratic Republic of Congo).  A Kikwembe is used to carry babies, as a skirt or piece of clothing and sometimes as a blanket. This specific Kikwembe was given to my mom from a family friend around the time I was born. I now have my own Kikwembes but this one will always have a special place in my heart because it reminds me of my childhood. It is also a large part of Zambian and Congolese culture. I even use it as a blanket on the plane every time we travel to Zambia and DRC. This Kikwembe is a good reminder of my culture and my history.

– MC

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant