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"Thirty years ago, the shea nut tree had a pattern of its production. It flowered in December then by the time it reached April, it would be ready," Mr Gerima told the BBC.

The growing popularity of charcoal from the shea nut tree has made the situation worse.

Professor John Bosco Okullo, a leading agroforestry expert from Uganda's Makerere University who has been studying shea nut trees for more than two decades, also blames years of widespread insecurity for the problems.

The Ugandan government has also recognised the vulnerability of the shea nut tree.

Shea nut oil is a common ingredient in body care products, but is also used in chocolate and other products.