Try to build a Go project that uses Cgo and non-trivial C/C++ libraries. Throw in cross-compilation for more fun. You'll end up with an external build system that invokes Go build as one of the steps.

Go projects normally just tend to be self-contained server-like software that doesn't need a lot of external libraries. But once you step away from that, you're on your own.

I guess my problem with Gradle is that app building should be way simpler than it is. Apps are not something niche anymore, but the tooling is still similar to the embedded software for microcontrollers.