A study of Wild and Semi-Wild Edible Plants Used by the Ethur Community of Abim District in Karamoja Sub-region.

Abstract

The study of wild and semi-wild edible plants used by the Ethur community of Abim district in Karamoja sub-region was conducted in Arembwola, Kanu and Aninata parishes in Abim Sub County. The study objectives were (i) to profile the edible wild and semi-wild plants among the Ethur, (ii) to assess the habitats of these edible wild and semi-wild plants and (iii) to examine the traditional methods of conserving the edible wild and semi-wild plants. A combination of descriptive and exploratory research designs were used. Data were collected with the help of semistructured questionnaire, key informant interviews, observation and guided field walks. A total of seventy WSWEPs belonging to thirty-four botanical families were used by the Ethur. Thirteen plants were unidentified, nine of which were leafy vegetables. Some of these plants were available throughout the year, others were available only in dry season or rainy season. The edible wild food plants are found in forests on hills, swamps, farmlands, roadsides, disturbed soils, among several other habitats. The most commonly used traditional method of conservation was sparing the plants during cultivation. Major challenges faced in conservation of the edible plants include land use change from forests to settlements and agricultural monoculture, conflicts, charcoal burning and fires. Widespread sensitization on the importance of WSWEPs and strict observation of all community by-laws and taboos were the most suggested solutions to the conservation challenges. Study results show a rich diversity of WSWEPs used by the Ethur. Conservation and domestication of these plants will preserve the local food culture, as well as, provide alternative food sources to the people in times of scarcity. Further research should also be conducted to examine effects of demographic issues on consumption of the edible wild food plants, their products and possibility of value addition to maximize utility. This approach will enable the local people appreciate the existence of the plants and sustainably use them.