Els: MBN360 News
Ghana will host a Fugu and Kente Trade Exhibition in Zambia in March 2026, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced, following a surge in interest in Ghanaian traditional wear during President John Dramani Mahama’s recent visit to Lusaka.
According to the minister, the initiative was triggered by the strong reception Ghana’s cultural attire received in Zambia, particularly after President Mahama wore the traditional smock, popularly known as Fugu, at official engagements.
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema publicly expressed admiration for both Fugu and Kente and indicated his intention to order more outfits for personal use — a gesture widely interpreted as a sign of cultural appreciation and goodwill between the two countries.
Ablakwa said the planned exhibition would provide a structured platform to promote Ghana’s textile and fashion industry while creating market opportunities for local producers.
“Ghana will host a Fugu and Kente Trade Exhibition in Zambia next month following the tremendous and phenomenal interest of Zambians in Ghanaian traditional outfits and President Hakainde Hichilema’s publicly expressed desire to place orders,” he said.
He described the event as a convergence of culture, diplomacy and trade.
The exhibition will coincide with Ghana Month in March, an annual celebration dedicated to promoting the country’s heritage through cultural events, exhibitions and educational activities.
Read also:
- Chappell Roan leaves talent agency led by Casey Wasserman after Epstein fallout
- Princess Burland showcases Ghana at Coca-Cola’s FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour in Abidjan
- Upper West records 15 suspected meningitis cases, two deaths this season
- Woman sets fire inside Alpha Hour church auditorium, CCTV captures incident
- Macron Calls for European Unity: Strengthen Global Influence Amid US-China Rivalry
Officials say the showcase will enable Ghanaian textile manufacturers, fashion designers and cultural entrepreneurs to expand into the Zambian market and strengthen cross-border trade in creative industries.
The move follows earlier policy support from Zambia, where the Zambia Revenue Authority removed duties and taxes on Fugu imported from Ghana for personal use, while maintaining charges for commercial consignments.
The exhibition also forms part of Ghana’s broader cultural diplomacy strategy aimed at projecting indigenous traditions globally while safeguarding them from erosion in an increasingly globalised environment.
What began as controversy — after Ghana’s smock was mockingly described by some in Zambia as a “blouse” — has since evolved into a moment of cultural rebranding and diplomatic engagement.
Ghanaians at home and abroad responded by sharing the history and symbolism of the attire online, sparking renewed pride in traditional wear.
The campaign drew support from members of the diplomatic community in Ghana, including representatives from the European Union, Germany and France, further elevating the attire as a symbol of national identity.
Authorities say the upcoming exhibition is expected to deepen cultural ties between Ghana and Zambia while opening new commercial pathways for Ghana’s growing fashion and creative sector.
