Accra: Mr. Gabriel Agambila, the Founder of Alagumgube, has called upon President John Dramani Mahama and Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin to consider implementing a ban on wearing suits during Parliamentary Sittings. He believes that the widespread use of suits, which are expensive imported items, primarily benefits foreign economies rather than supporting local Ghanaian communities.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Agambila expressed in an interview that the continued reliance on Western-style suits in official settings reflects colonial-era norms that no longer align with Ghana's cultural identity. He emphasized the importance of traditional Ghanaian attire, such as kente and batakari (fugu), which are culturally expressive, dignified, and suitable for formal occasions. These garments carry historical significance, communicate social values, and showcase indigenous craftsmanship.
Mr. Agambila argued that encouraging the use of local attire in state institutions would affirm national pride, cultural confidence, and authenticity in governance. He highlighted that the cost of one high-quality suit could instead purchase around five different smocks or Kentucky-style traditional outfits, which could be worn throughout the week. This shift, he stated, would channel money back into the constituencies and boost the domestic textile and garment industry.
Expanding his appeal beyond Parliament, Mr. Agambila urged religious bodies across Ghana to designate the last Sunday of each month as a 'traditional fabric wear day' to promote the adoption of local attire. He also called on public and private institutions to make wearing Ghanaian fabrics compulsory for workers every Friday, a move he believes would significantly grow the local fabric industry and create more economic opportunities for artisans and producers.
In addition, Mr. Agambila appealed to the Minister of Education to implement policies requiring the use of traditional or locally made fabrics in schools, either as part of uniforms or on designated days, further promoting the cultural identity and supporting the local economy.