Conflict Legacies in Wild Edible Plant Use Across Acholi and Lango Communities in Northern Uganda

Abstract

Wild and semi-wild edible plants (WEPs) are critical sources of nutrition, food security, and biocultural heritage in rural communities globally. This study investigates the diversity, use, and drivers shaping differences in WEP knowledge and diversity between Lango and Acholi communities in Northern Uganda. Data were collected through 22 focus group discussions, 46 in-depth interviews, and voucher specimen collection. A total of 101 WEP species were documented. Acholi communities exhibited a richer repertoire of WEP knowledge, and WEPs played a more prominent role in their contemporary food systems. Wetlands emerged as crucial habitats for foods used to bridge periods of scarcity, underscoring their importance for food security during the dry season. Differences in WEP availability and use were linked to contrasting land cover and agricultural practices. The recent history of conflict influenced knowledge dynamics: the slower post conflict recovery of Acholi communities likely contributed to a slower pace of agricultural intensification while concurrently facilitating the retention of biocultural heritage. This study advances understanding of how available plant diversity, cultural context, and socio-political factors interact to shape WEP knowledge and use, thereby highlighting the role and potential role of plants as biocultural resources in building resilient food systems.