Celebrated Ghanaian musician Noella Wiyaala has been unveiled as Fugu Queen and Tourism Ambassador at a ceremony held in Funsi in the Upper West Region.

The event formed part of efforts to promote Ghana’s cultural heritage, indigenous textiles, and tourism potential, particularly in northern Ghana.

Speaking during the unveiling ceremony, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, urged Ghanaians to patronise locally made products, especially Fugu and other indigenous textiles, to help create jobs, strengthen local industries, and preserve the country’s cultural heritage.

The Minister described Fugu as more than just a Ghanaian garment, saying it symbolises the country’s resilience, identity, and culture.

“Every thread woven into Fugu tells a story — our story and our resilience as a people,” she stated.

According to her, supporting Made-in-Ghana products would create economic opportunities for weavers, designers, traders, and entrepreneurs while boosting the tourism and creative arts sectors.

“When we wear and promote Ghanaian products, we create jobs for our weavers, designers, traders, and entrepreneurs. We stimulate local industries and preserve our cultural heritage for future generations,” she added.

The Minister further highlighted the tourism potential of northern Ghana, citing its rich cultural heritage, festivals, music, arts, cuisine and historical sites as attractions capable of drawing visitors from around the world.

She also praised Wiyaala for remaining connected to her roots and consistently promoting Fugu long before it gained widespread attention on social media.

“She has become a symbol of hope, determination and pride for the youth of northern Ghana and Ghana as a whole,” the Minister said.

In her remarks, Wiyaala pledged to continue promoting Ghana’s cultural identity on the international stage through her music and fashion.

“When I go out there, I will roar — and let it roar,” she declared.

The musician, known for blending contemporary music with traditional African influences, reaffirmed her commitment to serving as a cultural ambassador for Ghana and showcasing the country’s creative potential globally.