Ensete is a native fruit resembling a banana that is used by about 20 million people in Ethiopia, 40% of the country's population, as a primary source of food, eating utensils, and building materials. Although in the past a variety of species were cultivated, in recent years the cultivation of cash crops such as coffee, and development in forests where ensete grows wild has started a decline in both the diversity of species and number of trees. Furthermore, opportunities to pass on knowledge about ensete cultivation and use to younger generations have decreased. This project aims to collaborate with local residents and students in order to conserve the diversity of ensete species and pass on knowledge regarding their cultivation and use through the following three actions:
(1) Establishing a seedling nursery to collect and cultivate native species
(2) Sharing information and raising awareness by making a database of species and usage methods
(3) Developing and promoting dyed-clothe products made from ensete fibre