Arba Minch University has recently hosted National Moringa Task Force consultation meeting to discuss revival of Regional MTF at Senate Hall. Its 11 members from education, research and governmental bodies having brainstormed the issue, arrived at a consensus to develop a well-planned strategy to maximize the full potential of this Mother’s tree. Click here to see the pictures.

Regional MTF chairperson, Dr Simon Shibru, at the outset, reiterated the importance of Moringa stenopetala (known as ‘Halako’ among Gamo, Gofa & Wolaita people), its therapeutic values and multi-dimensional properties. He also urged members to have committed approach to explore its full worth for the good of the society.

National MTF chairman, Dr Asfaw Debella, talking to audience said that in southern region it’s used as a vegetable to prepare traditional food - fosesay & kurkufa. It acts as water purifier and pharmaceutical expedient; it also works as anti-spasmodic, anti-hyperglycemic and promotes agro-forestry for it has high market value, which further needs to be strengthened.

Citing common roadblocks to maximize its value, he informed there is lack of full-fledged research data and its genetic resources are still unexplored. To fulfill the lacuna, National MTF assured to coordinate and further strengthen collaboration, network and link among different stakeholders to realize its untapped worth.

Dr Asfaw further adds, ‘‘We will create database on scientific evidence about its medicinal, nutritional, agro-forestry and other usages through research and development, value added chain for improved livelihood and standardized information will also be disseminated to public.’’

National MTF secretary, Mr Wondwosen Girmay, introduced ToR to the participants and further discussion ensued wherein many expressed their views on its different components.

Dr Simon Shibru, on his priority, said, primarily we will create awareness in the society about its multi-faceted properties. And being committed for this noble endeavor, a well-organized plan will be implemented right from kebele, woreda, regional and to national level. Multi-disciplinary projects will be developed, funds will be solicited and scientific database will be created.

Dr Simon further emphasized that regional MTF will leave no stones unturned to make every Ethiopian aware about its real worth. Global market will be tapped for its promotion in a manner so that, in future, it gets fully corporatized and beget employments for many.

Dr Asfaw Debella, speaking on the importance of Regional MTF, said, National MTF was founded three years ago, but regional counterpart since its establishment before two years was inactive; it will soon be revived as ToR is ready with many institutions as its member.

Regional MTF assumes great importance because moringa was originated from here; it’s expected that soon, Amhara, Tigray and Oromia regions will also have MTFs to produce multi-disciplinary mega projects to maximize its full potential and make it known to people all around.

Citing available statistics, he said, Moringa has been in Ethiopia before 1000 years; but in last 20 years scientific community has started taking note of it and now MTF will explore its full potential. The next step is to finalize ToR, have action plan, develop projects and solicit funding, he stressed.

Representatives from Addis Ababa University, Ethiopian Public Health Institution, SNNPR’s Agricultural Research Centre, Natural Resources & Environmental Protection Authority, Health Bureau Research Directorate, Health and Health-Related Services and Supplies Regulatory Authority, Debub Mirab Kettena Kalehiwot Church – Chencha, Global Team for Local Initiatives, Gamo Gofa, Segen People’s, Wolaita and South Omo’s Agricultural Development offices were in attendance.

(Corporate Communication Directorate)