farming 14 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Reasons to Plant Mugavu Trees in Your Garden
The indigenous Mugavu tree (Albizia coriaria) offers Ugandan farmers shade, nitrogen fixation, soil fertility improvement, and valuable timber, making it ideal for coffee and banana plantations. Its resilience and multiple benefits support agroforestry and regenerative farming practices amid climate challenges. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/farming/why-mugavu-tree-should-find-space-in-your-garden-5390602
The Mugavu tree, scientifically known as Albizia coriaria, is a native East African species commonly found in Ugandan coffee and banana gardens. It provides essential shade for crops while facing demand from timber harvesters for its durable hardwood.
Farmers value Mugavu for its soil-enhancing properties. As a nitrogen-fixing legume, it converts atmospheric nitrogen into nutrients, improves water retention, and enriches soil through decomposing leaves and twigs, acting as a natural, low-cost fertilizer.
Joseph Lwevuze, a coffee farmer from Ntangala Village in Luweero District, shares how Mugavu trees revived his 10-acre plot after years of nutrient deficiency. He recommends spacing them to provide shelter without overcrowding, highlighting their root systems that break soil and boost fertility.
Farmer trainer Derick Kavuma notes Mugavu’s prevalence in 80% of local plantations due to its availability, resilience to harsh weather, and survival despite deforestation. Despite timber demand for construction and furniture, he urges agroforestry integration to sustain benefits.
Soil improvements start within three years, even as the tree matures in 10-15 years. It also helps balance soil pH by filtering acidity, supporting regenerative farming and climate adaptation.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)