Culture/ Ghana declares Wednesday ‘Fugu Day’ after Zambia fashion spat
Ghana has officially designated Wednesday as a national day to wear the traditional fugu garment, following a heated online exchange with Zambians over the outfit’s dignity.
The move comes after President John Dramani Mahama wore the distinctive northern Ghanaian smock during a state visit to Zambia, where some social media users mockingly likened it to a “blouse.”
The remarks ignited a fierce patriotic backlash from Ghanaians, who flooded platforms proudly showcasing their fugu.
Tourism Minister Abla Dzifa Gomashie announced Tuesday that the weekly tradition aims to project Ghanaian identity “with pride on the global stage” while delivering economic benefits to weavers, designers, and artisans across the creative sector.
“The government hopes this collective embrace of Fugu will strengthen national unity, stimulate the creative economy, and serve as a powerful symbol of Ghana’s cultural confidence,” Gomashie said.
The hand-woven, poncho-style garment traditionally associated with northern royalty and authority has since dominated social media, with citizens, MPs, and public figures displaying colourful variations.
The exchange even drew Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, who announced plans to order fugus from Ghana.
President Mahama noted the fugu’s historic resonance, recalling that founding father Kwame Nkrumah wore it at independence in 1957. and that he recently wore it at the United Nations.
Ghanaians heeded Wednesday’s call in force, turning the capital into a runway of woven pride.
