Abstract:
Traditional practices are universally recognised as a basis for conservation of
biodiversity. However, such practices are often not included in natural resource conservation
policies. This study assessed local conservation practices of shea trees (Vitellaria
paradoxa) within different farming systems in Uganda and developed conservation
guidelines for the species. The assessment involved 300 respondents, 15 focus groups and
41 key informants. Content analysis was used to identify the most important management
and conservation practices. Local uses were categorised on the basis of shea tree products
while differences in conservation practices were analysed using the Friedman test. The
results show that eight shea tree products are used for 36 different purposes. Respondents’ age significantly influenced their knowledge about the shea tree.