An assessment of the potential of tropical indigenous wood in Uganda’s construction industry: A case for the selected species

Abstract

This study investigates extent to which indigenous wood and its various derivative forms and methods of construction have been applied in Uganda‘s construction industry as much as elsewhere alike. The research originates from the use of non-sustainable materials like concrete, steel and burnt brick - whose impact contributes to climate change; apparent high cost of construction as well as the need for professional expertise to carry out construction works. This however leaves construction rather complicated, expensive and can only be handled by those that have access to the resources of ―conventional‖ materials and labour despite the diversity of wood species that provide potential construction materials since Uganda lies in the tropical region. With the desire to attain inexpensive sustainable construction techniques, wood/timber appears to be one of the most suitable products that are again available in plenty in Uganda. The research finds its origin from the concept of using the locally available indigenous materials and possible techniques for people to attain their architectural, social and cultural needs.