Somali Firm Transforms Invasive Ali-Garoob Tree into Charcoal and Livestock Nutrition
Mogadishu (AX) — In an innovative approach to address a pressing ecological dilemma, Somalia’s ECOSOM has embarked on a mission to turn the invasive Ali-Garoob tree into charcoal and nutritious animal feed. This initiative not only combats environmental degradation but also revitalizes farmlands and supports local livestock. The Ali-Garoob, colloquially known as ‘Iskabaxaa,’ has wreaked havoc across Somalia’s dry landscapes, jeopardizing the livelihoods of countless farmers and herders.
Since launching in 2017, ECOSOM has found a way to utilize the problematic tree to create charcoal for fuel and high-quality feed for animals. “The tree has posed threats to both the ecosystem and local agriculture. It was essential to transform this challenge into an advantage for the community,” stated Engineer Mohamed Abdullahi Roble, an esteemed figure at ECOSOM.
Originally introduced as a solution against soil erosion, this pesky tree has proliferated uncontrollably, engulfing farming fields and grazing plots. Thriving in harsh climates without the need for watering, the Ali-Garoob outcompetes other flora. This rampant expansion has diminished arable land, putting more pressure on Somalia’s agricultural viability.
To combat this, ECOSOM’s strategy involves felling the trees and converting the wood into charcoal. The remaining leaves and seeds undergo processing to create animal feed, yielding an invaluable product for farmers. Roble elaborated, “We peel off the prickly bark, transform the wood into charcoal, and craft a hay-like product from the leaves. This prevents regrowth and offers farmers essential resources.”
From its inception, ECOSOM has set up nine processing facilities across the nation, generating employment opportunities for numerous locals. “In many areas, we’ve been embraced with open arms by communities keen to curb the tree’s expansion,” Roble shared. In Galmudug, the launch of ECOSOM’s operations was greeted with jubilation. “When the factory arrived, it felt like a festival,” he added.
Through the initiative, ECOSOM mitigates the deleterious effects of the invasive tree while bolstering the local economy. Charcoal serves as an energy source, while the animal feed nourishes livestock in regions adversely affected by the invasive growth. “This project has instilled hope in communities that previously felt helpless against the tree’s proliferation,” noted Roble.
Looking forward, ECOSOM aims to broaden its reach to more regions severely impacted by the pesky Ali-Garoob tree. The goal is to entirely eradicate this invasive species by converting them into beneficial products. The factory is targeting all areas overrun by the tree, transforming it into charcoal to help alleviate environmental concerns and provide a sustainable energy solution. – SUPPLIED
With reporting from the BBC
