- President Mahama’s fugu drew major attention during his Zambia visit
- Social media reactions sparked playful Ghana–Zambia exchanges
- President Hichilema embraced the moment with humour
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has jokingly remarked that his country will be placing orders for more Ghanaian fugu after days of animated social media exchanges sparked by President John Dramani Mahama’s choice of attire during his state visit to Zambia.
President Hichilema made the comment at the Ghana–Zambia Business Forum on Friday, February 6, 2026, as President Mahama continued his three-day state visit focused on deepening bilateral ties between the two nations.
Although the visit featured key diplomatic and economic discussions, public attention largely shifted to President Mahama’s outfit. During the trip, he was seen wearing a fugu—a traditional Ghanaian smock closely associated with the culture and heritage of northern Ghana.
The attire, widely regarded in Ghana as a symbol of identity, pride, and cultural expression, generated mixed reactions on social media. While many applauded the president for showcasing Ghanaian culture on an international stage, some Zambian social media users referred to the garment as a “blouse,” sparking backlash and spirited online exchanges between Ghanaians and Zambians.
Addressing the issue humorously at the forum, President Hichilema welcomed the cultural moment created by the outfit. Referring to Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, he 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.”
Responding to the remarks, Mr Okudzeto Ablakwa noted that the conversation surrounding the fugu had prompted a broader reflection on African identity and culture.
“This is my president’s favourite attire, the fugu,” he said. “We are excited about the attention the president’s deliberate choice of clothing has generated. It has sparked a renaissance of what Kwame Nkrumah described as the African personality.”
He added that the discussion extended beyond fashion to deeper issues of identity and self-worth. “Reclaiming African identity, dignity, and culture goes beyond material restitution. When we speak of restitution and reparation, it is also a mental journey back to our roots and our identity,” the Foreign Minister explained.
What began as light-hearted banter has since evolved into a meaningful cultural exchange between Ghana and Zambia, creating space for renewed appreciation of Africa’s rich traditions and shared heritage.
