Africa, over several centuries has faced problems of fuel wood supply, inadequate fodder production and food insecurity as a result of massive deforestation and destruction of natural ecosystems through non-sustainable land use systems. These problems have been aggravated by increasing human and livestock populations and increased demand for food and wood products. Trees have an important role in providing these much needed products and services while improving the environment. Leucaena, a small fast growing leguminous tree, introduced from Central and South America has adapted very well and has played a significant role in fuel wood production, fodder supply and soil fertility improvement in many parts of Africa.This paper reviews the distribution of leucaena in Africa and discusses its importance and potential for fuel wood production, fodder, soil fertility improvement in traditional and improved land-use systems in Africa.
Publication year
1995
Authors
Language
English
Keywords
fuelwood, land use, multipurpose trees, soil fertility
