For many farmers in Lamwo District, Northern Uganda, growing seasonal crops such as maize and beans has become increasingly challenging. Unpredictable weather conditions, prolonged dry spells, and fluctuating market prices often result in low yields despite significant investments of labour and resources.

To address these challenges, farmers are increasingly embracing commercial tree growing as a long-term livelihood strategy. Through the Investing in Forests and Protected Areas for Climate-Smart Development (IFPA-CD) Woodlots Project, farmers are establishing commercial woodlots that can generate future income while contributing to environmental restoration and climate resilience. The Project is funded by the World Bank and implemented by the Ministry of Water and Environment together with consortium partners including NIRAS International Consulting, ECOTRUST, Havilah Company Limited, and Green Life International.

One farmer taking advantage of this opportunity is Odongo Richard from Apiata Village in Lamwo District. After joining the IFPA-CD Woodlots Project, Odongo decided to integrate commercial tree growing into his existing farming activities as a way of diversifying household income and securing his family’s future.

Odongo enrolled in the Project in late 2025 and began establishing his woodlot in 2026. Through the Project, he received 1,500 tree seedlings and technical support to establish approximately three and a half acres of commercial woodlots. He selected Eucalyptus and Black Teak, both of which offer strong market potential for timber and pole production.

Recognising the importance of maintaining food production while his trees mature, Odongo adopted intercropping practices. By leaving adequate spacing around young trees, he continues to grow crops such as simsim, cassava, and sorghum between tree rows. This approach allows him to maintain household food security while investing in a longer-term income-generating enterprise.

For Odongo, commercial tree growing represents an investment in his family’s future.

“My vision is, if the trees grow well, I want to sell them to pay school fees for my children.”

Like many participating farmers, Odongo views tree growing as a practical pathway towards improving household welfare and creating financial opportunities for future generations.

Through the IFPA-CD Woodlots Project, Odongo has gained practical knowledge on site preparation, planting techniques, spacing, weeding, and woodlot management. These skills are helping farmers improve tree survival rates and maximise the long-term productivity of their woodlots.

Beyond livelihood benefits, tree growing is also contributing to landscape restoration and climate resilience in communities vulnerable to the effects of climate change. In areas such as Apiata Village, where temperatures are often high and environmental degradation remains a challenge, farmers increasingly recognise the role of trees in improving environmental conditions and supporting sustainable land use.

Odongo’s experience illustrates how the IFPA-CD Woodlots Project is helping farmers combine economic opportunities with environmental stewardship. By investing in commercial woodlots today, farmers are building valuable assets that can generate future income while contributing to more resilient landscapes and livelihoods across Lamwo District.