Arba Minch University (AMU), in collaboration with Alabaster International and DeepImpact, officially began practical field-level implementation of the first-of-its-kind Enset Mobile Application today, December 20, 2025, in Chencha Zuria Woreda, Dorze. The pilot involves ten trained Enset Ambassadors working directly with farming communities and marks a major step in applying digital technology to strengthen Ethiopia’s Enset sector. Click here to see more photos
The mobile application is designed to transform Enset from a subsistence crop into a scalable and commercially viable value chain. The platform delivers research-based, farmer-friendly guidance on Enset production, disease management, improved processing techniques, and value addition.
Dr. Gezhagn Garo, Horticulture Researcher and Lecturer at AMU and Coordinator of Enset Mobile Application for Improving and Scaling Enset Cultivation, highlighted the challenges facing Enset production, including declining productivity due to bacterial wilt disease and reduced interest among farmers in planting Enset. He explained that these challenges prompted the development of a technology-enabled solution to support disease control and large-scale production.
“At the pilot stage, we have selected, trained, and equipped ten Enset Ambassadors with smartphones,” Dr. Gezhagn said. “Each Ambassador will support twenty farmers, providing continuous training and technical assistance to promote mass-scale expansion and sustainable Enset production.”
Dr. Sabura Shara, Horticulture Researcher and Lecturer at AMU and Team Member of the Project highlighted the practical content included in the app, noting that it provides comprehensive manuals and guidance for farmers. He emphasized the app’s critical role in controlling bacterial wilt disease, offering clear information on disease symptoms, management, and prevention measures.
Dr. Sabura also highlighted the app’s potential to expand Enset cultivation into non-growing areas, particularly in the central and northern parts of Ethiopia, where Enset is not widely cultivated. He explained that the app is currently operating at the pilot level, and after collecting feedback and identifying strengths and weaknesses, an improved final version will be made accessible to all farmers across Ethiopia, enabling broader scalability and commercialization of Enset.
Mr. Zefine, Head of Chencha Zuria Woreda Agricultural Office, welcomed the initiative, noting that the mobile application would strengthen local agricultural extension services and improve farmers’ access to timely and accurate technical information. He urged the Ambassadors to strongly play their role, emphasizing that their dedication and active engagement are critical for enhancing Enset productivity, controlling bacterial wilt, and opening new income opportunities for farmers in the Woreda.
Among the Enset Ambassadors, Mr. Zemede Andarge expressed his pride in serving the community through this pioneering initiative. He vowed to set an example for fellow farmers and to diligently carry out his role in training, mentoring, and promoting best practices for Enset cultivation, contributing to the wider adoption and success of the crop.
To ensure the success of the initiative, a formal contract agreement has been signed between the Ambassadors and Arba Minch University, clearly defining their roles, responsibilities, and proper handling of project materials. The Ambassadors have pledged to diligently carry out their duties, actively supporting farmers and promoting sustainable Enset production at the community level.
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Public and International Relations Executive
