President John Mahama has injected humour into the ongoing debate over the fugu outfit between Ghana and Zambia, suggesting that critics may not have seen portions of his appearance at the United Nations.
Speaking to JoyNews’ Maxwell Agbagba after the Ghana–Zambia Business Dialogue in Lusaka, Mahama explained that the traditional attire has always been a key part of Ghana’s cultural identity.
“It’s called a smock in English, but in our language, some people call it Fugu, some call it Batakari,” he said.
He said he was surprised by the attention the outfit attracted on social media, noting that he had worn it on major international platforms in the past.
“I wore the smock to the United Nations, the highest platform in the world. I’m surprised that Zambians didn’t notice it then,” he said.
Mahama also spoke about the historical roots of the attire, describing its use among royalty and warriors.
“In the past it was worn by kings, royalty, and also warriors. When our warriors were going to war, they wore smocks,” he stated.
He added that the garment was traditionally believed to provide spiritual protection.
According to Mahama, the smock symbolises pride in African heritage and should not be considered out of place in formal environments.
“I gave him a fugu. What I wore, I gave him one of those,” he said, referring to Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema.
He concluded by welcoming the attention the debate has generated, saying it has helped promote Ghanaian culture.
“I thank Zambians for marketing our Fugu for us,” he added.
