Traditional charcoal production methods within Savannah Woodlands of Nyaravur Sub-County, Nebbi District, Uganda: Evidence from Earth Mound, Earth Pit and Drum Kiln Practices

Biomass especially Charcoal and wood remain the primary households energy source in Uganda and the major source of fuel for cooking and lighting both in rural and urban settings.   The high demand has led to commercial production intensifying the harvesting and cutting of the most desired tree species for mass production affecting the entire savannah woodland diversity and ecosystem. Limited research has explicitly examined how traditional charcoal production methods influence woodland diversity in Uganda, The main objective of the study was to explore on the traditional charcoal production practices within the savannah woodland .The study adopted a descriptive and field-based ecological survey design, integrating quantitative and qualitative approaches. Data was collected from charcoal producers, local leaders and key informants using questionnaires, interviews and field observations. Findings reveal that Earth mound kilns were the dominant method of charcoal production across Mbaro West, Angal Lower and Angal Upper parishes, followed by earth pit kilns, while Drum kilns were used only minimally. The analysis show that charcoal remains a major household energy source and livelihood activity in Uganda, yet its production is commonly dominated by traditional technologies that consume large quantities of wood and contribute to woodland degradation It concludes that, that charcoal production in Nyaravur Sub-County remains largely traditional and labour-intensive  and suggests that practical training in improved kiln use, producer-group demonstrations and  community-based woodland management be adopted.