Empowering Communities to Conserve Kasyoha-Kitomi Forest Reserve

In collaboration with National Forestry Authority (NFA) NatureUganda is implementing the People Partner with Nature for Sustainable Living (III) programme funded by Dansk Ornitologisk Forening (DOF), BirdLife Partner in Denmark, to secure the integrity of the 433 square kilometre Katsyoha-Kitomi Central Forest Reserve (CFR) in Southwestern Uganda. Through this project, communities living adjacent to the forest, have been supported in developing sustainable livelihood options that reduce pressure on the forest while boosting household incomes. These initiatives are being implemented in collaboration with the Collaborative Forest Management Associations (CFMAs).

The communities adjacent to Kasyoha-Kitomi CFR have warmly embraced the support provided by NatureUganda, particularly the training in apiary, wine-making, and climate-smart agricultural practices as these interventions have provided sustainable sources of income and food security.

Ms. Mugisha, a local banana farmer testifies that “before the training in agronomic practices, I used to harvest banana batches of about 2-3 kg, but now I’m seeing batches between 4-5 kg”. Her experience reflects the larger impact of improved farming techniques. The focus on sustainable agriculture has not only increased productivity but has also trained a number of local farmers as Trainers of Trainers (ToTs), who now act as demonstration farmers, helping others to implement these practices. With 2,400 farmers targeted, NatureUganda is setting the stage for widespread, lasting change.

Apiary, or beekeeping, has emerged as a vital livelihood for the communities. NatureUganda supported the four CFMA groups in Rubirizi district with 700 beehives, however, additional support from the World Bank through NFA added 2,100 hives. In 2023, the collective honey harvest amounted to 3,910 kg, valued at approximately Ugx 39 million. The income from honey has been complemented by the production of propolis and beeswax, diversifying income streams and enhancing resilience against fluctuations in honey yields. Despite a low colonization rate in some hives, the community remains optimistic, buoyed by the additional training provided to manage and expand these apiary enterprises.

Before the project, firewood collection was unrestricted, placing heavy pressure on Kasyoha-Kitomi CFR. Today, the partnership with NFA, and CFMAs has introduced regulated harvesting days where collection is limited to Wednesdays and Saturdays. Charcoal burning has been halted altogether hence reducing forest degradation. To further lessen dependency on forest wood, nearly 1,000 households were supported energy-saving stoves (ESS) and this has reduced firewood collection. Of these, 400 stoves were constructed locally, demonstrating the communities’ commitment to sustainability. The ESS initiative is proving to be a powerful intervention, as users attest to significant reductions in firewood usage and the associated time and labour.

While the PPN project has achieved remarkable results, some challenges remain. For instance, firewood collection requires more stringent regulation, the banana disease affecting banana crops is a major concern for farmers and calls for immediate research and response.

We are grateful to the Rubirizi district local government leaders, NFA and CFM associations for the support and collaboration with implementing this project to empower local communities while protecting Kasyoha-Kitomi CFR.

The PPN project exemplifies the impact of collaborative conservation, empowering communities to thrive while fostering a sustainable relationship with their natural resources.