President John Dramani Mahama has said that Ghana’s traditional fugu smock could soon gain global popularity, following heightened international attention triggered by a comment describing the attire as a “blouse” during his recent visit to Zambia.

Speaking on Friday, February 6, President Mahama reflected on how social media projected the moment, turning a casual remark into a viral cultural conversation that placed Ghanaian heritage firmly in the global spotlight.

He said the unexpected attention has helped spotlight Ghanaian culture and could boost economic opportunities for local artisans, especially smock weavers.

“Smock has become an integral part of our culture. The smock weavers in Ghana will be very happy because, through the power of social media, they have received branding and marketing they could never have imagined,” he said.

‘I wore Fugu to UN, but I’m surprised Zambians didn't see it’ - President Mahama wades into debate

Narrating how the discussion started, the president explained that reactions to his arrival sparked the moment.

“While people were commenting on my arrival, one person from the crowd asked, ‘What blouse is he wearing?’ and it triggered a whole social media firestorm,” he noted, adding that the excitement has notably sparked worldwide interest in the fugu.

President Mahama also highlighted the commercial potential of the traditional attire, envisioning it as a future contributor to Ghana’s exports. 

“I thank Zambia for marketing our fugu for us. It might even become an export item in our bilateral trade. We will export some fugu and create a new fashion trend,” he said.

NA/AE

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