Demonstrating local biodiversity benefits: Lemon grass was previously an infamous weed that the farmers of Ntungamo used to curse, burn and uproot.It was known to the pastoralists as a notorious weed that withstands harsh, dry weather conditions, and easily germinates after being burnt, making it virtually impossible to destroy. Now it is being cultivated and nurtured as a potential income source.

Alternative income sources: The project introduced cultivation of lemon grass as an alternative income source for the rural poor in Ntungamo district. 23 acres of lemon grass were planted in the hope that it will provide raw material for the extraction of essential oil that fetches a premium in the international market for its uses in cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry.

Reducing land degradation: By expanding the coverage of land under lemon grass cultivation, the project has contributed to reducing soil erosin in the hilly project area which by virtue of its topography and widespread rearing of livestock is very prone to high rates of soil erosion. The roots of lemon grass hold the soils together, preventing soil erosion on the hills.