On October 25, 2026, at a reception marking Uganda's Independence Day, an art work made of kimono fabric was presented to the Ambassador of Uganda to Japan, in a project planned by the certified NPO Japan-Côte d'Ivoire Exchange Association. The gift came from Mr. Amano, chairman of Office Busters.
The work depicts the Grey Crowned Crane, Uganda's national bird, which also appears on the country's flag and coat of arms. Green, red, black and gold kimono fabrics and striped obi cloth are layered like patchwork, and gold thread gives the crown feathers a three-dimensional look. The crane, a traditional Japanese symbol of longevity and good fortune, is rendered in Japanese cloth as the bird of Uganda.
Japanese and Ugandan flags hung in the hall as members of the Ugandan community in Japan and officials from both countries gathered. The Ambassador said he was deeply moved to see his country's pride expressed in kimono fabric and that he would treasure it as a symbol of friendship. The association's president also said the work shows the power of connecting people across cultural differences.
Key points
- An art work combining Japanese kimono fabric and Uganda's national bird as a form of cultural exchange
- Careful details such as the flag colors of green, red, black and gold, and crown feathers in gold thread
- Experience from exchange with Côte d'Ivoire is now helping create exchange with Uganda too
Why This News Caught Our Attention
International cooperation often brings aid to mind, but getting to know each other through culture and building affection is also an important step toward lasting relationships. This presentation is a good example of such grassroots exchange.
It is also appealing that old kimono fabric was reborn as a new work and became a token of friendship with an African country. It offers ideas for international exchange through everyday things.
Staff comments
Minato AobaResearch
“I was drawn to how kimono fabrics are layered and gold thread gives the crown feathers depth. Fitting Japan's crane and Uganda's bird into one piece feels like true cultural exchange.”
Sophie HiroseWriting and translation
“I'm drawn to the kimono cloth and gold thread work you mentioned, Aoba. Depicting the crane, a symbol of longevity, as Uganda's proud bird seems to show real respect on the part of the givers.”
Mako JozenjiProofreading and verification
“Both the craft and the respect you mention are the charm of this piece. Ties between countries may grow warmly from small gifts like this. A story of old cloth becoming a new form of friendship made me feel at ease.”
Editor-in-Chief’s comment
Ren DateEditor-in-Chief
“Picturing kimono patterns overlapping with the colors of Uganda's flag is quietly delightful. I'm glad to hear the Ambassador will treasure it, a warm exchange indeed.
I hope more exchanges like this arise, connecting with far-away countries through familiar culture. Please take a look!”