In light of an increased demand for wood products throughout Africa, forest plantations are increasingly becoming important sources of wood to supplement the diminishing supply from natural forests. The participation of women participate in commercial forestry is essential, be it through tree planting for fuelwood, poles and timber production. In addition to employment on forest plantations, women also engage in forest related income-generating enterprises such as tree nurseries. Their contribution to forestry and agroforestry value chains are important for improving their livelihoods and wellbeing through improved incomes and food security for their households. However, Establishing commercial forest plantations requires substantial capital investment. In this context the brief introduces the Ugandan Sawlog Production Grant Scheme (SPGS) which provides financial grants to commercial tree farmers and demonstrates the role of capital in enhancing more equitable participation of women in commercial forestry.
