The National Coordinator for the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), Nii Lante Vanderpuye, has called for legislation to make the wearing of the Ghanaian smock, popularly known as fugu, compulsory in government and public institutions.
His comments come amid renewed public interest in the traditional attire following a recent online exchange between Ghanaians and Zambians after President John Dramani Mahama was seen wearing a smock during his visit to Zambia.
Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday, February 7, Mr Vanderpuye said a formal regulation was needed to promote and market the attire effectively.
He argued that relying on voluntary participation would not achieve the desired results.
“I will advocate for a sort of regulation. In this country, when you want people to do things voluntarily, you don’t get results. If we legislate and say every Friday, anyone working in a government institution or within the public space must wear traditional attire, it will help in marketing and branding”
“But when you make it voluntary, people who are consciously determined will do it, and others will not,” he said.
The debate around the smock gained traction after some social media users in Zambia jokingly referred to the fugu as a “blouse” following President Mahama’s visit, remarks many Ghanaians considered dismissive and culturally ignorant.
The traditional smock, widely associated with northern Ghana and worn for cultural and ceremonial occasions, quickly became the centre of online discussions, with many Ghanaians defending its cultural value and significance.
The conversation later evolved into a broader debate on African identity, fashion and the growing popularity of the garment across borders. Campaigns such as “Fugu Friday” were launched by influencers and commentators to celebrate and promote the attire.
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema later responded humorously to the online banter, saying he was happy with the cultural moment and even planned to order more fugu for himself.
