Climate change threatens agricultural productivity and food security across vulnerable regions, notably Ethiopia and Sub-Saharan Africa. This review critically assesses the potential of Enset (Ensete ventricosum), a native, multipurpose crop, as a climate-resilient staple. Drawing from a systematic multi-database literature search, we highlight Enset’s exceptional agronomic traits: high drought tolerance, adaptability to degraded soils, and superior carbohydrate yields per hectare compared to major cereals. Beyond caloric value, Enset contributes essential micronutrients and minerals, reinforcing its role in nutritional security. These attributes position Enset as a strategic buffer against climate-induced crop failures and seasonal hunger. However, its broader adoption is hindered by limited genetic research, rudimentary processing technologies, and weak policy support. To unlock Enset’s full potential, we propose a multifaceted strategy: targeted scientific investment, development of scalable postharvest innovations, and integration into national and regional climate adaptation frameworks. Enset remains a critical yet underutilized biological asset. Its systematic promotion through coordinated multi-stakeholder engagement—including researchers, policymakers, and farming communities offers a transformative pathway toward resilient, sustainable food systems. By elevating Enset from a localized subsistence crop to a cornerstone of climate-smart agriculture, Ethiopia and similar regions can proactively mitigate food insecurity under escalating climate stress.
climate resilience; drought tolerance; genetic diversity; nutritional value; sustainable agriculture