Ugandan bark cloth, Lubugo, is a complex and beautiful material. The Buganda people of Uganda have been creating this cloth from trees for hundreds of years. It was originally used for clothing, bedding, around the home, and since has evolved to signify the identity of the Buganda, being worn by the Kabaka (king) for ceremonial occasions - this is why it has been referred to as a cloth for kings! It is a sustainable cloth (the tree grows it bark back year after year!) and many Ugandan artists and designers are using this in their contemporary practice.

Our partners in Uganda ensure each cloth benefits the producer and the environment. They train new makers and are committed to replanting trees for future generations.

We also love our naturally dyed BLACK bark cloth - sustainably sourced and dyed, and traceable to the maker!

Plaited palm leaf has been a part of the textiles of Uganda for generations. Artisans hand-weave complex patterns in an array of designs. We work with individual weavers to create sheets of plaited palm sourced from the enkindukindu tree. Through a process of drying, splitting, dyeing, and weaving long bands of the palm, various surfaces and textures are created.

The practice of weaving on floor looms was brought to Uganda in the 1970s from Europe. Large 4 harness looms are found throughout Uganda, producing beautifully woven cottons and fibers that create complex surfaces and cloths.

All woven patterns have been developed by Mekeka Designs using only indigenous fibers and materials in the weft