Food security in the face of climate changes: Resilient Enset production with less resource use (Future-Enset)

project summary

Climate change is having a severe impact on local farming systems in Ethiopia and its neighboring countries, threatening food security and livelihoods. In response, our project aims to tackle these challenges by securing more resilient crops. We will focus on Enset, a banana-like plant that is a staple food in the region, which is currently underutilized.
Enset has the potential to be a key crop in adapting to changing climate conditions. Our project will involve screening and selection of Enset variations that are better suited to these new climate conditions. We will also work on improving agricultural practices, to ensure farming systems which are more robust to the more extreme conditions such as droughts and floods, increased temperature, and erratic rainfall.

Currently, Enset is processed through labor-intensive methods. A key part of the project will involve creating simple mechanical solutions in collaboration with local communities to simply this process and improve food safety and quality. We will also consider simple innovative solutions for local products such as solar systems for drying of food powders and simple jar solutions as fermentation systems. Additionally, we will develop new, more nutritious food products based on Enset in collaboration with local food manufacturers. Since Enset processing is traditionally carried out by women, this project also aims to promote gender equality. The project will also foster strong collaboration between Danish and Ethiopian universities, enhancing local research capabilities and building long-term relationships.