The Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has called on citizens to regard fugu and kente — both recognised by UNESCO as elements of cultural heritage — as shared national treasures rather than ethnic identifiers.

Her appeal comes as the government intensifies efforts to popularise the wearing of fugu on Wednesdays, an initiative designed to stimulate patronage and reinforce the domestic textile industry. The renewed focus follows heightened public interest in the attire after President John Dramani Mahama wore it during a recent state visit to Zambia.

Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of a meeting between the Smock Weavers’ Association and the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, the minister said the designated “Fugu Wednesday” campaign is aimed at maintaining the momentum generated around the traditional garment. She noted that the initiative has already gained traction, with Members of Parliament and other prominent public figures embracing the fabric.

Ms Gomashie emphasised that both fugu and kente transcend regional origins and should be celebrated as enduring expressions of Ghana’s collective identity.

“It is not about tribe. It is not about a language. It is about Ghana. For this fugu and kente that has been listed on UNESCO sites as a heritage product that we are offering the world, it should be a rallying round of the red, gold, green and the black star.

“It is not about any particular tribe. It is about what it is that identifies us as Ghanaians. I am using your platform to thank all the people who bought into the idea and wore fugu on Wednesday. Come Wednesday, let’s be even bigger,” she said.