Scientists believe that enset, a relative of the banana that grows in the Ethiopian Highlands, is a “wonder crop” that could feed many millions in a warming world.
Called the “tree against hunger” by the locals, this drought-resistant crop is used to make porridge and bread. Its high productivity and harvest flexibility currently makes it a starch staple for around 20 million people. However, data suggests that a much larger region may be climatically suitable for cultivation.
A study found potential for 12 to 19-fold range expansion, particularly to dryer and warmer regions. Ultimately, enset could feed an additional 88 to 112 million people in sub-saharan Africa.
As the world warms further due to climate change, enset cultivation might make a valuable contribution to the global food security outside of Africa too.
What do you think about this underrated crop? Will enset eventually find its way outside the Highlands of Ethiopia and help fight malnutrition in the world? Please, leave us a comment below.