Ugandan researchers are working on a project that uses banana stems to create textiles and hair extensions. This helps reduce waste and provides farmers with extra income. The project is called Banatex-EA and is based at Busitema University.
Banana fibre has qualities like cotton, but it is more rigid. Researchers are developing techniques to soften the fibre. This makes it easier to spin the banana fibre into thread.
Farmers usually leave banana stems in their gardens after harvest. These stems can also act as fertilizer, which is helpful.
Difficult words
- researcher — A person who studies or works on something.researchers
- project — A planned piece of work to do something.
- income — Money received for work or services.
- fibre — A thin thread or material.
- soften — To make something less hard.
- technique — A way of doing something skillfully.techniques
- fertilizer — A substance that helps plants grow.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How do you think using banana stems might impact local farmers?
- What other materials could be used similarly to banana stems?
- How important is it to reduce waste in farming?
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