Ghana is said to be home to the oldest dye tradition in Africa , dating back to 1500 . Gold , potassium and ash are mixed with water to create a deep blue dye . The tradition is under threat from cheap fabric imports from abroad .
Kano is said to be home to the oldest dye pits in Africa , dating back to 1498 . Indigo , potassium and ash are mixed with water to produce a deep blue dye . The tradition is under threat from cheap fabric imports from abroad .