Ethno-Botanical Uses of Ugandan edible wild fruit species

Edible wild fruit tree species are known to provide enormous products and services to several rural communities worldwide. Products derived from such edible wild fruit tree species and related conservation issues are not adequately documented. The objectives of this study were to document the uses/products derived from five most preferred edible wild fruit tree species of Gulu district; how their products are harvested; how they are locally managed; if there are any constraints to cultivation and local strategies for conservation. The five edible wild fruit species used in this study (Vitellaria paradoxa Gaertn, Vitex doniana Sweet, Borassus aethiopum Mart, Tamarindus indica L. and Annona senegalensis Oliv.) were earlier identified from household heads in Gulu district as most preferred. Data on these were collected using questionnaires, interview guides, field visits, home observation and photography. The main uses and products which were established included fruits, fuel-wood, charcoal, medicinal, timber among others. Modes of harvests varied with each product. No management system was in place for any fruit tree species. Wild fruits have several products not yet documented. Willingness to cultivate these fruit trees is low. It is, therefore, important to raise awareness on the demises of mismanaging these tree species, set and implement adequate conservation measures.