Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has expressed admiration for Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama’s traditional fugu attire, saying Zambia plans to order more of the handwoven smocks.
The remark came at the Ghana–Zambia Business Forum in Lusaka on February 6, during Mahama’s three-day state visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.
The fugu is a traditional handwoven smock originating from northern Ghana, often worn during formal and cultural occasions.
It is widely regarded as a symbol of Ghanaian identity, heritage, and pride.
During President John Dramani Mahama’s state visit to Zambia, he and Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, donned the attire at official events, drawing significant attention both locally and online.
The outfit sparked spirited conversations on social media, with many Ghanaians praising the president for showcasing their culture internationally, while some Zambians jokingly referred to it as a “blouse.”
The exchange highlighted the cultural differences and the public’s keen interest in traditional African attire, turning the fugu into a talking point during Mahama’s diplomatic visit.
Hichilema referring the Ablakwa said, “I am very happy that the foreign minister is wearing that. I have asked my team to post on various platforms that the president of Zambia will be ordering more of that for himself.”
