A kufi or kufi cap is a brimless, short, and rounded cap worn by men in many populations in North Africa, East Africa, West Africa, South Asia, and the Middle East. It is also worn by men throughout the African diaspora. The kufi is a traditional hat for men in West Africa and is part of the national costume of most of the countries in the region. It is worn by Muslims and African Christians, and many grandfathers and other older men wear a kufi every day to symbolize their status as wise elders, religious people, or family patriarchs. The kufi has strong associations with many Islamic cultures, as well as Pan-African pride. The kufi is similar to the kippah in Jewish culture. Crochet and knitted styles are preferred by young girls and infants. For members of the Christian faith, the kufi is unisex, and is also worn by women. The kufi is a sign of peace, mourning, renewal, or protection of the mind when worn by men. The kufi is also associated with members of the Islamic faith, although it is worn by people of mainly West African heritage of all faiths. The kufi is available in many variations of knit and embroidered styles, and it varies based on culture and fashion trend.