Breakthrough in providing information on African acacias. Validated RNRRS Output.

Abstract

This is one of 280 summaries describing key outputs from the projects run by DFID's 10-year Renewable Natural Resources Research Strategy (RNRRS) programmes.

Principally based on Projects R7275, R4348, R4526 and ZF0207. A large information gap on valuable acacia trees has recently been filled. Monographs, an annotated bibliography and synthesis of available information, and a manual on the identity, site requirements, seed sources, management, and uses of the six most important African acacia species plus six others from Zimbabwe and neighbouring countries, have been produced. A synopsis containing details of the species' names, distribution, botanical descriptions, ecology and uses, plus drawings, is in the final production stage. Acacia trees provide a wide range of products and services to Africans: fuelwood, fodder, shelter, rehabilitating degraded soils, and increasing productivity of non-arable land. Native acacias are preferred, as exotic trees don't take well to the harsh conditions, but their use has been limited through a lack of information for forestry technical officers and botanists in easily accessible formats.

The CD has the following information for this output: Description, Validation, Current Situation, Current Promotion, Impacts On Poverty, Environmental Impact. Attached PDF (9 pp.) taken from the CD.

Citation

RIU. Breakthrough in providing information on Africanacacias. Validated RNRRS Output. (2007) ISBN 978-0-9552595-6-2

Published 1 January 2007