The contribution of eucalyptus woodlots to household income: a case study of Bugongi valley landscapes in Kabale Municipality

Abstract

Globally, over 1.6 billion people rely on forests and wood-related products for their livelihoods (Sakagami & Sakaguchi, 2022). This study assessed the contribution of eucalyptus woodlots to household income in Bugongi Valley landscapes, in Kabale municipality. Data were collected for a period of four months from march to June 2025. The objectives of the study were: (1) To document the products farmers derive from eucalyptus woodlots and how they are used to generate income; (2) to assess the benefits derived from eucalyptus woodlots; and (3) to examine the current challenges facing woodlot farmers and their possible solutions in the Bugongi valley. An exploratory research design was used in the study with a purposive sampling approach used to 60 targeted households actively involved in eucalyptus woodlot farming to gather insights on its income contribution. The findings of the study revealed that eucalyptus woodlots in Bugongi, Kabale District, provided significant economic and non-economic benefits to local farmers, with income generation being the primary advantage. The association between demographic factors and additional benefits derived from woodlots showed that older woodlot farmers, particularly those aged 41 and above, were more likely to recognize additional benefits from eucalyptus woodlots, with a statistically significant relationship (X² = 47.2, D.f = 3, P ≤ 0.000). On the other hand, gender, marital status, occupation, and education level of respondents were not significantly associated with the recognition of additional benefits. The main products derived from eucalyptus woodlots include firewood, timber, and charcoal, with firewood being the most commonly harvested. Local households were identified as the predominant buyers, while construction companies were mentioned less frequently. Despite the benefits, farmers face several challenges, including pests and diseases, poor access to markets, and high costs of inputs such as seedlings. Generally, woodlots were found out to offer economic and non-benefits in Bugongi. The study recommended woodlot farmers in Bugongi, Kabale District to focus on improving the management practices of their eucalyptus woodlots to enhance both productivity and profitability through use of improved seedlings.