The Fight to Save Uganda's Precious Shea Trees from Extinction

As demand for charcoal increases, Ugandan shea trees face severe threats from deforestation. Mustafa Gerima, passionate about preserving these essential trees, calls on communities to unite in their conservation efforts for future generations.

The shea nut tree, commonly referred to as "women's gold" for its valuable oil, is facing an alarming decline in Uganda, driven by factors like climate change, poverty, and urban expansion. Mustafa Gerima, known as "Mr Shea," has taken it upon himself to revive interest in these trees, which have been decimated as locals turn to more immediate sources of income, such as charcoal production.

Having once been a biology teacher, Gerima shifted his focus six years ago after witnessing the dramatic loss of shea trees in the Mount Kei Central Forest Reserve. What was once a thriving ecosystem is now a stark landscape, limited to stumps. He travels across northern Uganda, emphasizing the need to protect these valuable trees that families rely on for both economic stability and environmental health.

The agricultural patterns of shea trees have also changed drastically due to climate change. Gerima notes, “Thirty years ago, the shea nut tree had a pattern of production," but shifts in rainfall and prolonged drought have hindered fruit production, posing risks not only to the trees but also to the livelihoods of those depending on them.

According to Uganda's environment ministry, the nation loses approximately 100,000 hectares of forest cover annually, and shea trees are increasingly at risk. Local producers like Mariam Chandiru express their frustrations, stating that their businesses are failing; previously robust earnings have plummeted due to the diminishing supply of shea nuts.

The history of civil unrest, particularly due to the Lord’s Resistance Army, has also led to a breakdown in the community’s connection to the land. Following years of conflict and displacement, many locals prioritized short-term economic gains over sustainable practices, further exacerbating the situation.

Experts like Professor John Bosco Okullo from Makerere University highlight how climate change continues to disrupt the natural cycles of shea trees while urban development further constrains their habitats. Yet, Gerima remains hopeful. His initiatives, including a significant 19-day walk to raise awareness, aim to galvanize community support for tree preservation and replanting efforts.

Though Uganda's government has outlawed the felling of shea trees for charcoal, implementation remains weak. To combat the continuous destruction, a concerted effort is essential, as communities must explore alternative energy sources to meet urban demand.

With advances in technology, conservationists are now using techniques like grafting to speed up the maturity of shea trees and collaborating to map existing populations. Gerima emphasizes the importance of collective responsibility, advocating for grassroots initiatives to foster conservation education among local youth.

His mission goes beyond mere tree preservation; it embodies a cultural legacy and a vision for future generations. Gerima urges, “If they come and only find stumps, what will they think of us?” Through awareness, education, and community action, he believes hope remains for Uganda's precious shea trees and the livelihoods they support.