Ghana is weaving a cultural revival, at least one Fugu every Wednesday. The Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts has declared Wednesdays National Fugu Day, and the country’s traditional attire is stylishly on display from the marketplace to the boardroom.
President Mahama’s decision to wear a traditional Ghanaian fugu, also known as batakari, during his state visit to Zambia sparked a lively social media debate.
While some Zambians mocked the outfit, calling it a “blouse,” Ghanaians quickly defended the cultural significance of the Fugu, highlighting its roots in northern Ghana.
On Day One of the initiative, Joy News visited parts of Accra to gauge compliance. Many citizens who spoke to Joy News welcomed the move and expressed pride in participating.
One respondent described the gesture as a civic duty.
“We were informed that wearing this should be part of our responsibility in championing the cause of the state. I feel so proud to be in Fugu this morning.”
Another said the announcement inspired immediate action, saying, “I’m a lover of Fugu, and when I heard the declaration by the Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, I felt proud. I had planned to wear it later in the week, but when Wednesday was announced, I chose to wear it today.”
A third respondent emphasised the importance of promoting Ghanaian culture globally.
“Our culture is very important to us. If we promote it more, other countries will respect it. This is one of the most beautiful outfits we Northerners wear when stepping out. And very soon, the whole of Ghana will wear Fugu, because it is beautiful,” he concluded.
Traditionally handwoven in northern Ghana, Fugu has evolved from ceremonial wear into a widely embraced fashion statement, seen everywhere from marketplaces to corporate boardrooms.
According to the ministry, the initiative is not only about cultural pride but also about economic empowerment. Officials say dedicating Wednesdays to the fabric is expected to increase demand for local weavers, designers, artisans, and traders, strengthening Ghana’s creative value chain.
The Ministry remains optimistic that sustained participation will reinforce national unity while positioning Ghana’s cultural heritage more prominently on the global stage.
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Source: www.myjoyonline.com