Cycad

Threats to the species include:
a) Construction of a small hydro electric power plant on the Mpanga River Falls:
i - construction of roads and camps in the cycad belt, causing soil erosion and deep gullys, reducing habitat quality
ii - reduction in population of mature and young individuals as they are knocked down by heavy machinery
iii - reduction in area of habitat owing to parts being occupied by weir (reservoir), water canal, and power house

It was reported that the actual area of cycads impacted by the construction is probably less than 5% of the total area inhabited by the cycads. (Luke and Luke 2010)

b) Local community activities:
i - reports of collection of seed and seedlings for commercial trade may impair the regeneration capacity of the cycad and thus lead to further reduction of its population
ii - cultivation on the slopes of the gorge and clearing of land for cash crops
iii - harvesting of the cycad leaves for building materials
iv - burning of some areas occupied by the cycad for stimulation of grazing pasture.

This species is listed in Appendix I of the CITES Appendices. Only a very small part of the gorge falls within the Queen Elizabeth National Park, thus no more than 2% of the population occurs inside the park. Community sensitization has been done in the area but harmful community activities such as burning and cutting continue. Identification of further suitable sites for the formal protection of this species is needed. Long-term monitoring of the population will support the conservation of this species.