Nnaalinnya Lubuga Urges Youth to Embrace Cultural Heritage as Bark Cloth Exhibition Opens

What the report says

Nile Post reports that Nnaalinnya Agnes Lubuga Nabaloga has urged young people to take greater interest in Buganda’s cultural heritage, presenting bark cloth production as both a cultural duty and a possible source of income. She was speaking at the Uganda Tourism Board headquarters during the opening of a 30-day Bark Cloth Exhibition and training programme focused on the material’s value, preservation and contemporary uses.

According to the report, the programme is linked to efforts to promote Buganda traditions during activities around Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II’s 33rd coronation anniversary. Nnaalinnya Lubuga said indigenous knowledge can support identity while also creating opportunities for skills development, innovation and employment, particularly for youth.

Archbishop Augustine Kasujja, the Apostolic Nuncio Emeritus and chief guest at the launch, encouraged the transfer of ancestral skills to younger generations. Other speakers included Joseph Kawuki, who chairs the organising committee for the coronation anniversary celebrations, and State Minister for Older Persons Jackline Mbabazi, who called for better-quality bark cloth products that can attract young people and compete in modern markets.

The report also cited Fredrick Mutebi of Bumu Art Gallery, who pointed to the need for more mutuba tree planting, artisan training and stronger protection for Uganda’s bark cloth heritage. Bark cloth, traditionally made from the inner bark of the mutuba tree, has long-standing cultural importance in Buganda and is recognised by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage. Nile Post notes that it is now also being adapted for fashion, art, décor and environmentally friendly products.