Utilisation of woody plants for livelihoods in rural areas of Nakapiripirit district, Northeastern Uganda.

Abstract

This study assessed the role of woody plants in supporting livelihoods in rural areas of Nakapiripirit district. The research focused on evaluating woody plant diversity and abundance, utilization patterns, threats to and management practices for woody plants. Data was collected through household surveys, field observations, and transect walks in three sub-counties of Nakapiripirit district, namely Kawach, Loregae and Namalu. Household survey collected data on the utilization, perceived threat and management of woody plants by rural people where a total of 48 households were assessed. Field assessment was carried out to obtain the inventory of woody plants in the landscapes near the sampled manyattas. Data from the household survey was used to analyse the utilization patterns, point out threats to and identify major management practices employed by the people. The results reveal moderate to high woody plant diversity (Shannon index: 2.474) with 43 unique species identified. Three species (Vachellia drepanolobium, Acacia gerrardii, and Acacia lahai) dominated, accounting for over 60% of surveyed individuals. Woody plants served multiple purposes, with Balanites aegyptiaca emerging as the most versatile species. Primary uses included construction, fuelwood, food, and carving. The majority of respondents (>90%) sourced woody plants from natural environments, particularly Mt. Kadam, Pian-Upe game reserve and surrounding wild bush. Other sources included buying (2.1%) and garden (2.1%). Land clearing for cultivation (71.4%) and over-harvesting (17.1%) were identified as the main threats to woody plant populations. Management practices included traditional taboos (25%), sparing trees during land clearing (20.8%), and pruning/pollarding (16.7%). However, 22.9% of respondents reported no engagement in management practices. The study highlights the critical role that woody plants play in supporting rural livelihoods in Nakapiripirit district. However, the heavy reliance on natural environments and limited adoption of sustainable management practices raise concerns about long-term sustainability. This therefore calls for concerted management efforts to ensure sustainability of woody plants. Recommendations include promoting assisted natural regeneration, implementing agroforestry initiatives, district level land-use planning, and further research on declining species.