By Waiswa Michael Baluye
Buyende district, located in the cattle corridor region, faces several challenges primarily linked to environmental stressors like drought, overpopulation and land fragmentation.
These issues have significantly affected livestock farming with a lack of grass and sufficient grazing land exacerbating the struggles for farmers.
One of the most effective ways to address these problems is to engage forestry extension officers in the district to spearhead tree planting campaigns.
Trees can help restore soil fertility, prevent erosion, improve water retention and provide organic matter to the soil making it more fertile and better for growing grass and other crops.
Additionally, trees offer shade and shelter, reducing heat stress on livestock and improving their overall well-being which creates better grazing conditions.
Encouraging sustainable tree planting also helps prevent further deforestation, which exacerbates climate change and reduces the land’s ability to retain moisture, leading to more severe droughts.
Trees can also provide opportunities for income through the sale of timber, fruits, or other products, offering an alternative livelihood for local communities.
Forestry extension officers could focus on educating the community on the benefits of trees and proper planting techniques, encouraging agroforestry, where trees are planted alongside crops and livestock, and promoting the use of drought-resistant tree species that can help improve local ecosystems and sustain the community through dry seasons.
Incorporating tree planting into the district’s agricultural practices could help alleviate some of the pressures caused by overpopulation and environmental degradation, leading to a more sustainable and resilient future for Buyende district.
The writer is the coordinator ONC in Buyende district
