Mukau Tree a Boon in Semi-Arid Lands
In Kenya’s semi-arid regions grappling with climate change, rural communities are turning their attention to growing the drought tolerant melia volkensii (mukau) tree.
This fast maturing hardwood tree — dubbed the mahogany of the dry lands — has multiple uses and its timber is in high demand and lucrative.
Currently, a foot of melia volkensii wood costs about Sh60 to Sh70, which is double the price of wood from other species.
A recent survey carried out in Kitui town by researchers from the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (Kefri) showed wood products made from melia volkensii timber cost 40 to 50 per cent more than those from cypress and pine wood.
Flore de Preneuf / World Bank