President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his commitment to promoting Ghanaian businesses, revealing that every item of clothing he wears to work and official events is made by local designers.

Speaking to journalists during his state visit to Zambia, President Mahama said his wardrobe choices reflect a deliberate effort to support local production and preserve Ghana’s cultural identity.

“All my clothes are made in Ghana by our designers,” he said. “This is what I wear every day—to work and at official functions.”

He explained that traditional Ghanaian attire is better suited to the country’s climate, noting that heavy suits are impractical in warmer conditions.

“Our part of the continent is warmer, so we need to adapt our clothing for comfort,” he said.

For the visit, the President wore a traditional smock, commonly known as fugu or batakari, which he described as a conscious celebration of Ghana’s heritage.

“In English, it’s called a smock, but in our language, some people say fugu, others batakari. It is a traditional garment produced locally and forms part of our culture,” he said.

President Mahama also highlighted the historical significance of the smock, noting that it was worn by kings, royalty and warriors, who believed it offered spiritual protection in battle.

He recalled that Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, wore a smock on the day of the country’s independence on March 6, 1957, cementing its place in the nation’s identity.

“President Nkrumah and all the freedom fighters wore smocks on that historic day. It is now an essential symbol of our cultural identity,” he added.

The President’s attire sparked lively discussions on social media, after some commentators mistakenly referred to the smock as a “blouse”, triggering debates between Ghanaians and Zambians. Mahama said the attention has inadvertently benefited local artisans.

“Ghanaian smock weavers will be delighted. Social media has given them exposure and marketing opportunities they could not have imagined,” he said, adding that online searches for “fugu”, “batakari” and “smock” had surged.

During a gift exchange, President Mahama presented his Zambian counterpart, Hakainde Hichilema, with a fugu, while receiving a Zambian carving in return.

“President Hichilema plans to order more smocks for his people to promote Ghanaian fashion,” Mahama revealed.

The Zambian leader also embraced the moment during the Ghana–Zambia Business Forum, joking that he would be distributing the garments widely in his country.