The Shea Butter Tree in Uganda
| In
the districts of northern and eastern Uganda, the shea-butter
tree is the most conspicuous of the useful trees conserved
when clearing land for cultivation. In traditional farming
systems, the shea tree grows with millet, sorghum, pigeon
pea, cotton, cowpea, beans, cassava and even banana. |
| Protection
of young shea trees is the most critical issue in the
regenerative stability of the agro-ecosystem, as the developing
tree can remain less than a meter in height for several
years, and does not become productive (useful) until its
15th or 20th year. The wood of the shea tree is heavy,
strong and termite resistant. It also makes excellent
charcoal. |
|
