African Initiatives Rediscover Pumpkin's Nutritional Climate Role

Pumpkins are scientifically classified as fruits because they develop from flowers and contain seeds, despite often being treated as vegetables in culinary contexts due to how they are eaten, such as in soups or pies. In Africa, pumpkins are a staple crop grown in home gardens and used in traditional dishes, yet they remain under-researched and underutilized in formal agricultural systems despite their nutritional and climate resilience benefits. Efforts led by the Crop Trust aim to conserve pumpkin genetic diversity and promote its role in nutrition, women's entrepreneurship, and climate resilience. In the U.S. and UK, pumpkin-themed activities like pumpkin picking and giant pumpkin growing contests have become popular, serving both educational and recreational purposes. These activities help connect the public with agriculture, teaching children and families about food origins and farming. Additionally, programs distributing pumpkins to schoolchildren aim to enhance agricultural education, emphasizing pumpkins' biological classification and uses.