The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts has announced that every Wednesday is to be dedicated to wearing Fugu (also known as Batakari or smock), in a move aimed at promoting Ghana’s rich cultural heritage and boosting the creative economy.
In an official statement dated February 10, 2026, signed by Minister Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the government encouraged all Ghanaians, as well as friends of Ghana at home and abroad, to wear Fugu in all its diverse forms, designs, and expressions, complemented by its distinctive accessories, every Wednesday.
The initiative, dubbed “Fugu Day” on Wednesdays, seeks to deepen national cultural awareness, affirm Ghanaian identity, and project the country’s heritage with pride globally.
“On behalf of the Government and the good people of Ghana, and in furtherance of our collective commitment to preserve, promote, and celebrate Ghana’s rich cultural heritage,” the statement read, the ministry wishes to inform the public of this decision.
Beyond its cultural value, the policy is expected to deliver significant social and economic benefits. These include empowering local weavers, designers, artisans, and traders across the Fugu value chain, as well as creating expanded business, employment, and commercial opportunities nationwide.
The government expressed hope that the collective embrace of Fugu would strengthen national unity, stimulate the creative economy, and serve as a powerful symbol of Ghana’s cultural confidence and self-expression.
Fugu, a hand-woven traditional smock primarily associated with northern Ghana but worn across the country, holds deep historical and symbolic significance. It was famously worn by Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah during Ghana’s independence declaration on March 6, 1957, and continues to be a mark of honour, leadership, and cultural pride.
The announcement comes amid growing national interest in promoting traditional attire. Recent events, including President John Dramani Mahama’s prominent wearing of Fugu during his state visit to Zambia earlier this month, which sparked widespread online discussions and cultural pride, have highlighted the garment’s global appeal and potential.
Social media campaigns such as “Fugu Friday,” which gained traction following those discussions, saw many Ghanaians, including Members of Parliament, donning the smock to celebrate heritage.
The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, under Minister Gomashie, has been actively championing initiatives to revive and showcase Ghanaian culture, including plans for a revised National Culture Policy launch in March during Ghana Culture Day.