The Intricate Process of Backcloth Harvesting

Following the untimely demise of the former ndigga clan leader Lwomwa Danial Bbossa, two hundred sheets of barkcloth were used instead of a casket to lay him to rest.

Such is the tradition of Buganda for the leaders. An interesting conversation came up about how this kind of burial is good for preserving the environment.

True with the current challenges of climate change and distraction of the environment such concerns are valid, but how is barkcloth harvested and most importantly how is the environment protected?

In the serene landscapes of Butambala district, lies a tradition as old as time itself: the harvesting of backcloth. This ancient craft, deeply rooted in cultural heritage, serves as a vital component in various societal ceremonies and rituals. From weddings to funerals, the barkcloth plays a significant role, symbolizing unity, prosperity, and reverence. However, behind its exquisite appearance lies a meticulous process of cultivation and harvesting, known to only a select few.

Ssozi one who has mastered the craft says " In ancient times, backcloth was used for clothing..women would wrap it around themselves from the chest down while the young men around the waist as for the older men two or more backcloth was used"

The journey of barkcloth begins, from a ficus natalensis commonly known as the mutuba tree in Buganda.

The Ngonge clan traditionally has craftsmen tasked with manufacturing bark cloth for the community as well as the royal family.

With meticulous precision, harvesters embark on the daunting task of hand-picking the inner bark of the Mutuba tree, this is done during the wet season. It is beaten with different types of wooden mallets to be soft and have colour but this is the longest and most tiring process

Once the leaves are collected, they undergo a rigorous sorting process to eliminate imperfections and ensure uniformity. Skilled artisans meticulously inspect each leaf, discarding any that fail to meet the stringent standards set by centuries of tradition. What remains is a meticulously curated selection of foliage, ready to undergo the transformative journey that will culminate in the creation of the backcloth.