Fugu banter: Ghana dedicates Wednesdays to traditional smock

Ghana’s Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts is encouraging citizens and friends of Ghana, both at home and abroad, to wear the traditional Fugu attire—also known as Batakari—every Wednesday in celebration of the country’s cultural heritage.

In a statement by Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the government said the initiative is part of efforts to preserve and promote Ghana’s rich traditions while strengthening national identity.

The Ministry explained that dedicating Wednesdays to the traditional attire would help project Ghanaian heritage proudly to the world while also supporting livelihoods within the creative and cultural industries.

“This initiative is intended to deepen national cultural awareness, affirm our identity, and project Ghana's heritage with pride to the world,” the statement noted.

Beyond cultural pride, the government says the move is also aimed at boosting economic opportunities across the textile and fashion value chain, from weavers to traders.

“The initiative is expected to generate far-reaching social and economic benefits, including the empowerment of local weavers, designers, artisans, and traders across the value chain, as well as expanded business, employment, and commercial opportunities nationwide,” Minister Gomashie stated.

The government further expressed hope that the collective adoption of the attire would reinforce unity and confidence in Ghana’s cultural expression.

A garment that tells a story

Interest in the iconic attire recently surged across Africa after Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama appeared in fugu during a visit to Zambia, prompting curiosity among many observers about the distinctive garment.

Fugu, or Batakari, originates from northern Ghana, particularly among communities such as the Dagomba, Mamprusi, Gonja, and Konkomba. Traditionally handwoven from thick cotton strips sewn together, the loose-fitting smock is known for both its practicality and symbolism.

For many, the attire is deeply personal. Peter Adagwine, a public servant based in Accra, says wearing Fugu has been part of his life since childhood.

“It is easy to wear, and you do not need any form of ironing. Modernity has also improved the making of the fabric for the smock with various colour combinations to get a variety of attractive designs. This has made many people opt for these modern designs and colours,” Adagwine tells TRT Afrika.

While Ghana’s kente cloth may be the country’s most globally recognised textile, Fugu carries its own deep cultural weight. Often worn during festivals, weddings, naming ceremonies, and state occasions, the garment symbolises respect, status, identity, and heritage.

Traditional rulers and elders frequently wear heavily embroidered versions to denote authority and royalty. Historically, the smock was also worn by hunters and warriors, believed to offer both protection and spiritual strength.

With the government now encouraging a nationwide weekly celebration of the attire, Wednesdays may soon become a vibrant showcase of Ghana’s cultural confidence — one woven strip at a time.