Indigenous trees and shrub’s contributions to the fuelwood value chain in Awelo Sub-County, Amolatar District

Abstract

Fuelwood remain a primary source of household energy in rural Uganda, yet its extraction worsens pressure on natural forests and woodlands. Understanding the role of indigenous trees and shrubs in the fuelwood value chain was essential for balancing rural energy needs with sustainable forest management. This study investigated the contributions of indigenous trees and shrubs to the fuelwood value chain in Awelo Sub-county, Amolatar, by exploring how indigenous tree and shrub fuelwood could complement other renewable energy sources for a diversified energy mix. The specific objectives were: (i) to investigate the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats for indigenous trees and shrubs to fit in the fuelwood value chain in Amolatar District; (ii) to assess the fuelwood value chain and identify indigenous trees and shrubs in the district; and (iii) to identify challenges faced in the management of indigenous tree and shrub species and provide solutions for sustainable management. While earlier studies in Uganda broadly examined fuelwood use, few focused specifically on indigenous species and their socio-economic and ecological roles at the local level. This study filled that gap by combining ecological assessments with socio-economic analysis. A cross-sectional energy survey was employed. Data were collected from fifty households (50) across nine (09) villages, including fuelwood traders, using random and purposive sampling through household surveys, key informant interviews, and field observations. Collected data were checked, cleaned, coded, entered into SPSS, and presented as tables and graphs using Descriptive Statistics. Findings revealed that several indigenous species, including Combretum collinum, Albizia spp., and Acacia spp., formed the backbone of household fuelwood supply. These species were highly valued for their burning quality, availability, and adaptability to local environmental conditions. However, overharvesting, limited knowledge about indigenous trees, and reliance on traditional methods posed major management challenges. Despite these challenges, indigenous trees and shrubs play a critical role in supporting rural livelihoods by providing fuelwood and supplementary benefits such as traditional medicine, construction materials, and wild fruits. The study concluded that integrating indigenous species into community-based forest management, on-farm, and restoration programs was vital for sustainable fuelwood supply. Findings offered valuable insights for policymakers, local governments, and development partners working to enhance energy security, biodiversity conservation, and rural development in northern Uganda.