Zambia's president has weighed into a cultural debate that has erupted online after the president of Ghana arrived in Zambia wearing a traditional outfit called a fugu. Some Zambians mockingly called it a 'blouse.' But Zambia's leader hit back by sharing his love for the design, saying he would be 'ordering more of that stuff' for himself, in a video posted on X from the Ghana–Zambia Business Forum held in Lusaka this week. Ghana's foreign minister said the social media buzz was a sign that young people were keen to reclaim their cultural roots.

In Ghana, a push to encourage traditional outfits has led to 'Fugu Friday,' where people wear African clothing. After several days of online banter, President Hakainde Hichilema expressed his admiration for the Ghanaian outfit, stating, 'We'll be ordering more fugu from Ghana following the social media conversations.' When Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama arrived for a three-day state visit wearing a fugu, it sparked a flurry of reactions online, with some Zambians making humorous remarks about the attire.

Ghanaian officials defended the outfit, highlighting its cultural significance, with Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa emphasizing that it is a symbol of African heritage and identity. Popular Ghanaian YouTubers also joined the conversation, urging everyone to recognize the fugu's importance and pushing back against the derogatory comments. This incident illustrates a growing movement among young Africans to celebrate and take pride in their cultural identities.