The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts has announced that government is encouraging Ghanaians to dedicate every Wednesday to the wearing of fugu, also known as batakari, as part of efforts to promote the country’s cultural heritage.

In a correspondence dated February 10, 2026, the ministry explained that the initiative forms part of government’s broader commitment to preserve, promote and celebrate Ghana’s rich cultural identity.

It called on all Ghanaians, as well as friends of Ghana both at home and abroad, to take part by wearing fugu in its various designs and styles, together with its traditional accessories.

According to the ministry, the move is aimed at deepening national cultural awareness and strengthening the country’s sense of identity, while projecting Ghana’s heritage to the international community with pride.

The ministry further noted that the initiative is expected to bring social and economic benefits to the country.

It explained that increased use of fugu would support local weavers, designers, artisans and traders involved in the production and sale of the attire, while also creating more business and employment opportunities across the value chain.

Government believes that the nationwide embrace of fugu will help strengthen national unity, boost the creative economy and serve as a strong symbol of Ghana’s cultural confidence and self expression.

The correspondence was signed by the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, who reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to policies that promote Ghanaian culture and creative industries.

By: Jacob Aggrey

The National Democratic Congress parliamentary candidate for the Ayawaso East Constituency, Baba Jamal Mohammed Ahmed, has denied allegations that he induced voters during the party’s recent parliamentary primaries.

In a statement issued to the media on Monday, February 9, 2026, Baba Jamal confirmed that he appeared before a committee chaired by Mr Kofi Totobi Quakyi, which was set up to investigate claims of vote buying during the primaries held last Saturday.

He noted that he used the opportunity to clearly state his innocence and reject the accusations against him.

He stressed that his political record in the constituency shows respect for party processes and unity.

He recalled that he had previously contested two primaries in Ayawaso East and lost both times to the late Member of Parliament. On each occasion, he explained that he accepted the results peacefully in the interest of party cohesion.

Referring to the last primaries ahead of the 2024 general elections, Baba Jamal disclosed that he obtained 309 votes, while the eventual winner secured 452 votes.

He pointed out that his rising support among party members is not based on inducement but on the initiatives he has undertaken, his personal integrity, and a shared commitment to improving representation for the constituency in Parliament.

He expressed appreciation to the committee for granting him a fair hearing and thanked delegates in Ayawaso East for the trust they have placed in him to lead the NDC into the upcoming by election.

According to him, that confidence strengthens his resolve to work with party supporters to bring development to the area and improve living conditions for residents.

Baba Jamal ended his statement with messages of loyalty to the NDC, the Ayawaso East Constituency, and Ghana, reaffirming his commitment to the party’s values and goals.

By: Jacob Aggrey