Top Ghanaian DJ and Turn Up Army commander, Merqury Quaye, has launched a new cultural advocacy initiative dubbed “Fugu Friday,” aimed at promoting Ghana’s traditional heritage, particularly the northern smock popularly known as 'fugu' or 'batakari'.

He announced the initiative during the 'Usaywetin' show on Hitz FM on Thursday, following widespread social media debate sparked by comments from some Zambians who mocked President John Mahama’s attire during his recent three-day state visit to Zambia, following the invitation of Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema.

President Mahama wore the traditional attire during the visit when he was received on arrival at the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport by President Hichilema and the First Lady, in a ceremony marked by cultural displays and a strong show of Ghanaian pride.

However, images of the outfit drew ridicule online, with some Zambian commentators describing it as a “blouse.”

The remarks quickly triggered backlash from Ghanaians, especially on X (formerly Twitter), where users mounted a robust defence of the attire and its cultural significance.

The reaction underscored a broader need for Ghanaians to take ownership of their cultural identity and proactively educate others about traditional symbols and attire.

The 'Fugu Friday' is aimed at encouraging Ghanaians to wear the traditional smock regularly, particularly on Fridays, as a visible expression of pride in Ghanaian culture and heritage.

What began as a cross-border fashion controversy has since evolved into a national conversation, with many Ghanaians using social media to explain the history, symbolism, and regional importance of the fugu, especially among northern communities.

Dear Zambians,
The outfit worn by our President is not a BLOUSE. It is a Ghanaian traditional attire known as FUGU, also called Batakari. Our President is intentionally promoting the local garment industry both within and beyond our borders, unlike your President, whose suit is… pic.twitter.com/ifhkUVv9sK

— Wode Maya ® (@wode_maya) February 5, 2026

The initiative has already gained traction online, with users welcoming the idea as a creative way to turn ridicule into cultural education and reaffirm Ghana’s identity on the global stage.

See more reactions below

Culture on display

#BlackStars in Fugu, carrying Ghana’s heritage with pride. pic.twitter.com/nU1LSjrxw7

— Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) February 5, 2026

Heard we are throwing back#Smock #Fugu pic.twitter.com/lfuvwXL5xE

— Juliet Bawuah (@julietbawuah) February 5, 2026

Yes please. Thank you please. @wode_maya #FUGU pic.twitter.com/wxWG4oSFjJ

— Anne Sophie (Akosua) Avé (@annesophieave) February 5, 2026

Dear Zambians,

This is not a skirt. This is called Fugu, and it’s beautiful. Thank you !#FuguIsNotASkirt #Zambia pic.twitter.com/bwRt93854j

— Kwaku Krobea Asante (@KK_Asante) February 5, 2026

Dear Zambians, this traditional Ghanaian outfit is called FUGU and not BLOUSE. pic.twitter.com/tEG6du1M5s

— Felix Romark (@FelixRomark) February 5, 2026

Dear Zambians

This is Fugu. A very nice outfit from the Northern part of Ghana.

It is the most convenient and easiest wear to represent Ghana at diplomatic levels after the Kente. pic.twitter.com/H7G9Mo9yr6

— Manuel Nii Martey Mensah (@mnm_mensah) February 5, 2026

Dear Zambians, Smock/Fugu this traditional Ghanaian outfit .

Make good use of Google and stop disgracing yourselves #Ghana #Smock #Fugu
#Zambia pic.twitter.com/uLZmPx7gFf

— Ayishatu Zakaria Ali (@ayishatu_) February 5, 2026