ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses current issues pertinent to the use and management of indigenous biotic resources in East and southern Africa. Land and habitat types in southern and eastern Africa are dominated by arid, semi-arid and subhumid vegetation types with varying degrees of woody vegetation cover. The chapter also focuses on plant available moisture and nutrients. The availability of soil moisture and nutrients for uptake by plants constrains the possibilities for productivity. In the drier areas water is the main determinant. Vegetation structure may be dictated largely by local soil and water conditions together with land-use patterns. Species composition of local vegetation, however, also depends on biogeographic factors. The majority of people in rural Africa rely on timber for fuelwood and building materials. The utilisation of indigenous woody species for these purposes has evoked concern among foresters and the conservation fraternity. Timber is also important for the production of household utensils such as mortars and pestles.
