PROJECT SUMMARY

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

It has to be claimed that Enset is drought tolerant, and however, the scientific documentation is limited. It is comprised of genetically and morphologically diverse species, hence it is important to identify high climate resistant candidates, which can provide high yield and ensure optimal nutritional and functional profiles. Commercialization of Enset-based food is limited and hindered by short shelf life and food safety concerns. Furthermore, the nutritional profile variation of Enset raw material as well as the physical and chemical properties, are not known, and even less understood are the interactive effects of genetics, management, and climate variation on such properties. Climate-smart agriculture systems need to be supported by improved post-harvest processing practices, optimize nutritional and technological traits, and a strong and robust value proposition. This needs to include improved management processing systems fit to reduce the workload while ensuring income to the local communities. The vision of this project is to develop a scalable value proposition for more climate-resilient Enset food production using a design thinking approach. This highlights the opportunity to valorize Enset by addressing the significant knowledge gaps in the technology and the potential of new processing approaches. This North - South partnership will provide the necessary educational, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship tools to unlock the untapped potential of Enset to improve climate resilience, food security, and livelihoods.