URSB Advances Protection of Uganda’s Traditional Bark Cloth
The Uganda Registration Services Bureau has strengthened efforts to protect Uganda’s indigenous cultural products following an engagement with artisans and producers of bark cloth, locally known as Olubugo, from the Ngonge Clan in Bweza.
The meeting, held on Thursday, 7th May 2026, was led by Michael Wabugo, a Senior Registration Officer in the Intellectual Property Department, as part of the efforts to safeguard traditional products through intellectual property protection.
The engagement was aimed at supporting the registration of Olubugo as a Geographical Indication (GI), a move intended to protect its unique cultural identity, origin, and traditional value.
According to historians in the Buganda Kingdom, the Ngonge Clan is one of the three indigenous clans and is believed to have invented bark cloth between the 13th and 14th centuries. The clan also holds the traditional responsibility of dressing the Kabaka, highlighting the deep cultural significance of Olubugo within Buganda.
During the discussions, Mr. Wabugo guided participants on the Geographical Indication registration process, emphasizing the importance of collective ownership, maintaining quality standards, product traceability, and preserving cultural identity.
The meeting also highlighted the economic opportunities associated with GI protection, including improved market access, protection against imitation, and increased value for authentic traditional products.
Participants resolved to begin the GI registration process for Olubugo immediately. The Ngonge Clan also agreed to establish and formally register an entity to represent artisans and producers throughout the registration process and the product’s future management.
