Eremospatha haullevilleana is one of the rattan species that existed and still exist in sites, valleys, and nature reserves in Burundi. It is used in the country's artisanal life and especially in the manufacture of furniture.

Eremospatha haullevilleana

The present research aims to improve knowledge on the state of play and distribution at the national level (quantities, stocks) in order to consider the rational and sustainable exploitation of this species. The research also aims to test the domestication of the species in order to increase this raw material for the artisanal centers that use it and to reduce the exploitation pressure placed on other woody species used in carpentry in the manufacture of various furniture. To establish basic data on the condition and distribution of the species, the characterization of the ecosystems hosting rattan, the collection of rattan samples and various accompanying plant species existing on the site are made. The different types of soil and the slope on which the ecosystems are located are also determined during the study.

For domestication trials, a nursery is set up in the Kigwena Forest Nature Reserve, which is among the preferred areas for this biological resource. Various plant organs are used during these domestication tests. Finally, the study area consists of various sites selected in different provinces of Burundi, which are Rutana (Gitanga commune), Makamba (Mabanda, Kibago, Nyanza-Lac and Kayogoro municipalities), Bururi (Vyanda commune), Bururi (Vyanda commune), Rumonge (Vyanda commune), Rumonge (commune Rumonge), and Cibitoke (municipalities Mabayi and Bukinanyana).

National Institute for Environment and Nature Conservation