24 March 2025

London witnessed a groundbreaking event as RAP & Sons Ltd, in partnership with T. Cribb Funeral Directors, officially introduced the renowned Buganda Kingdom Barkcloth (Olubugo) to the UK funeral industry. This exclusive launch, held at T. Cribb Funeral Directors Victoria House in Beckton, showcased the deep cultural and environmental significance of this indigenous Ugandan material.

AIDO Network International leadership was honoured to be among the distinguished guests at the event. Barkcloth, derived from the Omutuga tree found only in Uganda, holds a prestigious place in African heritage. Traditionally used in royal coronations and burials, this unique fabric is celebrated for its powerful preservation properties, capable of preventing body decomposition for over 1,000 years.

The initiative was spearheaded by Lady Pauline Najjuma of RAP & Sons Ltd, an esteemed member of AIDO, in collaboration with T. Cribb Funeral Directors, one of the UK’s oldest and most respected funeral service providers. This historic moment marks a significant step toward embracing nature and tradition in modern funeral practices.

The launch event, held on March 22, 2025, attracted key stakeholders, cultural ambassadors, and funeral industry experts who were keen to explore the benefits of integrating Barkcloth into UK funeral services. The event underscored the importance of sustainable and culturally inclusive burial practices while reinforcing the strong historical ties between Africa and the global diaspora.

Barkcloth’s introduction into the UK funeral industry is expected to revolutionise traditional practices by offering an eco-friendly and historically rich alternative. This move aligns with the growing global shift towards sustainable and culturally meaningful burial solutions.

Attendees praised the initiative for bridging cultural heritage with modern funeral practices and reaffirming the significance of African traditions on the global stage. As the demand for environmentally conscious and historically significant funeral materials grows, Barkcloth stands as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of African craftsmanship.

As RAP & Sons Ltd and T. Cribb Funeral Directors pave the way for innovative and sustainable funeral solutions, the launch of Barkcloth(Olubugo) in the UK remains a milestone moment in cultural preservation and environmental responsibility.

For further information, or to be part of this historic movement, interested parties can reach out to:  Pauline Najjuma: +44 7988 787389

 AIDO PRESS UNIT

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