Esset Soul Of The Gurage

Esset resembles a banana tree Because of the resemblance it is so called false banana It has ever green long leaves a big stem and edible bulb like root As compared to other plants Esset is not grown for its fruit The whole plant the stem or trunk and the root is used as food after careful preparation Growing this plant is a tiresome venture From birth to harvest it takes long years Meanwhile since it doesnt require a large area of land it remained the major means of livelihood to the Gurage people Esset serves as vehicle for the social organization of the people Acquisition of wealth rank and gender roles are associated with the plant For example the wealth of a family is exhibited by number and the quality of Esset they own In addition it also serves as a milestone in the description of the Gurage identity