Transformative Impact: Charles’s Journey in Eucalyptus Tree Farming

For 20 years, the Sisters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary (SSHJM) have dedicated their lives to serving the Mukono District of Uganda's Central Region, where the majority of the population relies on agriculture as their primary source of livelihood. SSHJM CHIN addresses the unmet needs of individuals with disabilities, particularly children and their families. The initiative focuses on empowering key target groups, including children and youth with disabilities, their parents, unemployed youth, and women. Annually, CHIN uplifts 400 households through sustainable livelihoods, providing training in modern agricultural practices and planting approximately 30,000 trees.

Figure 1: Ssemalulu with his Family working in the garden

Supported by Misean Cara, the SSHJM-CHIN project aims to enhance climate-resilient livelihoods by training farmers in sustainable agricultural methods and supplying beneficiaries with diverse tree species to bolster afforestation efforts. Through community sensitization on environmental conservation, CHIN has successfully reduced environmental degradation and fostered a culture of tree planting among local residents.

A Local Champion: Ssemalulu Charles Lawrence

Ssemalulu Charles Lawrence, a 44-year-old resident of Katoogo Village in Mukono District, epitomizes the positive change that SSHJM-CHIN fosters in the community. As a family man and guardian to five nephews, Charles earns a modest living as a butcher. However, his commitment to tree planting has earned him the affectionate title of “millionaire” among his neighbors, thanks to his investment in eucalyptus farming. He currently manages 1.5 acres of land with 16,000 eucalyptus trees valued at approximately Shs240 million.

In January 2023, Charles ventured into eucalyptus tree farming after saving from his income-generating activities (IGAs). With a wetland unsuitable for traditional crop cultivation, he saw an opportunity to contribute to environmental conservation amid the adverse effects of climate change exacerbated by local deforestation.

“Initially, I took on tree farming to conserve the environment after witnessing the detrimental impacts of tree cutting and wetland encroachment for rice farming. Eventually, I realized that I was on the path to becoming a millionaire,” Charles shares with enthusiasm.

Charles chose the Grande eucalyptus species for its rapid growth and substantial market demand. He invested Shs510,000 to purchase 17,000 seedlings from the CHIN tree nursery, each costing Shs300. Though he faced challenges with some seedlings wilting due to drought and transportation mishaps, he successfully cultivated approximately 16,000 trees by utilizing the labor of his 15 family members.

“To be frank, I have done most of the work with my family because they expect to benefit from the trees in a few years,” he explains, highlighting the collective effort behind his success. Despite his trees being only one year old, individual buyers have approached him with offers.

Figure 2: Ssemalulu talking to his family members about the value  of investing in trees

 “I have declined to sell because I want to wait until they reach 10 years old. I’m not in a hurry since my IGAs are still supporting my family’s basic needs,” he says confidently. In a few years, Charles’s eucalyptus trees will grow to a size suitable for use as electricity poles, which can sell for between Shs200,000 and Shs300,000 each.

Challenges Faced

Despite his success, Charles faces challenges, including local residents who cut down his trees for firewood and termite infestations that have led to the drying out of some trees. Additionally, prolonged drought conditions hinder growth, delaying the anticipated harvesting period.

Despite these obstacles, Charles remains committed to his dream of environmental conservation. He plans to acquire more land for additional tree planting, recognizing tree farming as a lucrative investment. He envisions using the proceeds from tree sales to fund his children's university education and expand his home, while also investing in rental properties as another income-generating activity.

Charles encourages others not to fear investing in tree farming, emphasizing its potential as a long-term investment that can yield substantial benefits for both individuals and the environment. His story serves as an inspiring testament to the transformative impact of sustainable agricultural practices and community-focused initiatives led by SSHJM-CHIN