Africa-Press – Uganda. Farmers in Hoima District are increasingly embracing commercial tree planting as a sustainable solution to environmental challenges and household income needs.
For more than a decade, Samuel Akuzimbire, a farmer from Kibengeya Parish in Kapaapi Sub-county, struggled with persistent termite infestations that destroyed crops ranging from maize to eucalyptus trees. The repeated losses significantly affected his productivity and income.
This planting season, however, marks a turning point.
With the onset of the April rains, Samuel has shifted strategy, establishing a commercial woodlot with more than 400 pine trees. He says the species is more resilient to termite attacks and offers better long-term economic returns.
His transition is supported by the Investing in Forests and Protected Areas for Climate-Smart Woodlots (IFPA-CD) programme, a government-led initiative implemented in partnership with the National Environment Management Authority and the World Bank. The programme promotes sustainable commercial forestry while reducing pressure on natural forests.
A key implementing partner, ECOTRUST, working alongside Green Life International and NIRAS International Consulting Uganda, is providing farmers with technical guidance to ensure proper establishment and management of woodlots.
To address the termite threat, technical teams treated the soil before planting, helping protect young seedlings during their most vulnerable stage. This intervention improves survival rates and supports the development of strong root systems essential for climate resilience.
Samuel says the decision to invest in tree planting was made collectively with his family to ensure long-term commitment.
“In my family, we work as a team. We agreed together because everyone will be involved in taking care of the trees. Even in my absence, they understand the value of this investment,” he said.
Beyond environmental benefits, the initiative offers both short- and long-term economic gains. Pruning will provide firewood for household use, while mature pine trees will eventually be harvested and sold as timber.
“We chose pine because it provides quality timber. When the trees mature, I will be able to earn income to support my family and invest in other businesses,” he added.
Samuel’s farm is located just two metres from a government forest reserve, making his woodlot an important buffer against encroachment. By producing his own wood resources, he reduces dependence on protected areas.
“With my own trees, I don’t need to go into the reserve for firewood. As a local forest coordinator, I will also ensure others do not encroach,” he said.
Through partnerships involving ECOTRUST, NIRAS International Consulting Uganda, Havilah Company Limited, and Green Life International, the IFPA programme continues to equip farmers with technical expertise, land measurement services, and pest control solutions.
The initiative is transforming underutilised land into productive, climate-smart investments, positioning rural communities as both beneficiaries and stewards of Uganda’s forest resources.
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