The Ghana Museums and Monuments Board has leveraged the increased interest in fugu, a traditional hand-woven cotton garment largely worn in the northern part of the country, to organise an exhibition as part of efforts to celebrate the country’s shared history and identity.
The Fugu Exhibition, on the theme, “Our woven heritage,” was held in Accra last Wednesday, with government officials, members of the diplomatic corps and some key players in the tourism and creative arts industries participating.
Various shapes, colours and designs of the fugu were on display.
Patrons were taken through the history of the fugu — the production process and meanings behind the patterns, styles and methods of wearing it, including cap positions.
The fugu had become a fashion statement, which was steadily gaining attention beyond the country’s borders.
It got a boost when President John Dramani Mahama wore it during a state visit to Zambia, having donned the outfit at other global events, including a UN General Assembly in New York, sparking interest and driving up demand, particularly in Zambia.
Purpose
The Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, in a speech read on her behalf by the Director of Arts and Culture, Divine Kwame Owusu Ansah, said the exhibition was a unique platform for citizens and visitors to appreciate indigenous craftsmanship.
She said the theme was timely, given the increasing pressure on cultural identity and local industries from globalisation and fast fashion.
“As younger generations become more disconnected from traditional craftsmanship, the exhibition serves as a crucial reminder of the history, skill and meaning embedded in Fugu weaving,” the minister said.
She said that the global appreciation for authentic African design presented an opportunity to position fugu, not only as a cultural symbol but also as an economic asset.
Unifying symbol
The acting Executive Director of the board, Essel Blankson, said fugu, historically worn by chiefs and nobles, conveyed authority, status and pride and had evolved into a unifying national symbol.
He recalled its prominence during Ghana’s independence, when former President Dr Kwame Nkrumah adopted it as a symbol of unity, helping to bridge regional divides.
Mr Blankson said the fugu industry had employed many young people, particularly in northern Ghana, and could grow into a major economic driver due to its uniqueness and difficulty in replicating.
He urged the public to continue observing the Fugu Wednesday initiative to promote the attire and sustain its relevance.
Increased demand
The Deputy High Commissioner of Zambia to Ghana, Albert Mateyo Chifita, recounted President Mahama’s visit and said Zambians were initially surprised by the attire; however, that curiosity soon gave way to appreciation and demand.
He said traders now transported fugu from Ghana to Zambia, where it sold out within hours.
“At first, we never understood the importance of fugu.
Now we know the authority attached to it is incredible, and has made all of us realise that culture is dynamic,” Mr Chifita said.
He added that the ripple effect had gone beyond fashion, strengthening trade ties and cultural exchanges, including discussions on easing travel between the two countries.
Cultural preservation
The Ambassador of Spain to Ghana, Angel Lossada Torres, described culture as an evolving expression of identity, adding that creations such as fugu helped define people and connected societies.
The Charge d’Affaires of the Embassy of the State of Palestine, Ahmed Abu Dalfa, also praised the country for preserving its heritage, describing fugu as a distinctive hallmark of the nation.
The Turkish Ambassador, Hüseyin Güngör, also said the fugu garment placed responsibility on the wearer because of its weight.
Source:
www.graphic.com.gh