The United Nations has declared 2008 as the Year of the Potato.  It may sound funny, but in fact, the humbe potato is chosen because of the very important agricultural, economic and nutritional part it plays in feeding an evergrowing population.  The choice of the potato reminds us all that we are global citizens sharing common challenges - how to feed a world population growing by an  estimated 100 million people each year (www.potato2008.org), how to bring nutrition to the world's poor (the UN estimates about half of the world's population lives on less than $2 a day - www.un.org) what to grow on an Earth where land and water is scarce, and how to make it nutritional.

 Because potatoes can be grown worldwide, are staple in many diets around the globe, have high nutritional value and potential for alleviating global hunger, the year 2008 has been dedicated to increase the global awareness of the importance of potatoes to developing nations, and to bring more attention to the science of growing potatoes so as to maximise its access, sustainability and marketability (www.potato2008.org).

Aren't we so lucky if we get to buy potatoes by the kilo each week in our local grocery store?  Potatoes - another reminder we are all global citizens, connected by our duty to help our fellow neighbours, even if they live on the opposite side of the globe.

Mihiri Udabage
www.generationwonder.com