Production, Challenges, Potential and Prospects of Oromo Potato (Plectranthus edulis) and Anchote (Coccinia abyssinica) in Ethiopia: A Review

Abstract

Oromo potato and Anchote are high-yield potential endemic crops mainly grown in the home garden in Ethiopia. Though the crops have local significance, the information about these crops is very limited. Both crops had high yielding potential per unit area and nutritional value especially in carbohydrates and several essential micronutrients are useful for food security and the potential to combat the effect of climate change. However, their extent of diversity is not well known and recorded. Thus, there is a growing concern about the loss of biodiversity of these crops due to mainly human effects and less research priority. Therefore, to improve the potential benefits of the crops, attention should be given to their research improvement, utilization and their sustainable conservation may be in short term by establishing Mini-genebanks in the nearby agro-ecologies to coordinate and monitor any conservation activities. Moreover, awareness creation of the farmers and strengthening collaboration work with all stakeholders is important. Comprehensive study on the genetic diversity of Oromo potato and Anchote in cultivated as well as wild relatives of the crops is required for effective conservation and sustainable use in the future. Hence, a better understanding of the two minor crops is essential. In this review, overview on Oromo potato and anchote, nutritional values, their production and potential contribution to food security, challenges, potentials and prospects about the crops were discussed and recommendations are suggested.