Agroforestry Potentials of Under-Exploited Multipurpose Trees and Shrubs (MPTS) in Lare Woreda of Gambella Region, Ethiopia

Abstract

A study was conducted in Lare woreda of Gambella region with the aim of assessing the type and role of under-exploited multipurpose trees and shrubs. The study was specifically to identify under-exploited multipurpose tree and shrub species in different land use systems in the study area, determine the production and services role of the species and assess the local trees management practices. Key informants, formal survey with structured questionnaires and vegetation inventory were used to collect data on household's resources, local uses of multipurpose trees and shrubs , management practices and biomass of trees and shrubs. SPSS version 13 was employed to analyze the results and mean values were used to compare vegetation biomass between the two ethnic groups (Anuak and Nuer).The species richness or diversity was higher in the woodland(Nuer survey households) than the river bank (Anuak survey Kebeles) but the standing volume was higher in the river bank. A total of 19 and 7 trees and shrubs were locally used for food and medicine in the study area, respectively. It was also found that multipurpose trees and shrubs play various traditional roles to local community. They are used for fuel, construction, food, local medicine, folder, tools, religious function, shade, windbreak, soil conservation and fertility improvement, bee forage, local boat and other uses.