A chitenge is an African garment similar to a sarong, often worn by women wrapped around the chest or waist, over the head as a headscarf, or as a baby sling.
Chitenges are similar to kangas, lapas and kikoy, but are of a thicker cloth, and have an edging only on a long side.
Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Sudan and Malawi are some of the African countries where chitenges are worn.
Chitenges serve as an inexpensive, informal piece of clothing.
The printing on the cloth is done by a traditional batik technique. Many of the designs have a meaning. A large variety of religious and political designs is found as well as traditional tribal patterns. The cloth is used as material for dresses as well.
These bags have been made by girls and young women at the Youth Resource Centre in Ekwendeni, Malawi, as a way of generating some income. All the money from the sale of the bags will go directly to the Resource Centre to buy more chitenges to make more bags.
So go on, support the young women of Ekwendeni and buy a bag for just £5!
Bags are available from Canonbie Church or by contacting Lois on 0770 4201875
Canonbie United Parish Church 
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