Tree potential solution for African hunger

DAKAR, Senegal — Could a certain kind of tree hold the solution for starvation in Africa? Leaders of Church World Service in Senegal are considering the widespread cultivation of the Moring Oleifera tree in western Africa.

The entire tree is edible, from its roots to its leaves, and even the bark is a significant source of vitamins and minerals lacking in the typical African diet. The tree is indigenous to Africa and grows well in arid climates. Part of the tree, such as the leaves and seeds, can be ground into powder and used as medicines and even to help purify water, reports the United Methodist News Service.

While leaders do not expect the tree alone to solve the starvation problem, they expect it will play a significant role in food and medicine production.