Khat

Ethiopia is the world’s largest producer of khat – the fresh, stimulating leaves are chewed from Harar to Addis Ababa.

An evergreen shrub or small tree of the spindle family, usually growing to 1.5–6 m, with leathery, serrated leaves and small white flowers. Young leaves and shoots contain cathinone – an alkaloid with a stimulant effect similar to amphetamine, which breaks down quickly after picking, so khat is chewed fresh. It originates in East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. In many countries outside the region it is a banned substance.

Significance in the country

Chewing khat has a long tradition in Ethiopia, especially among Muslims in Harar and eastern Oromia, where it accompanies prayer, study and social gatherings. Khat is now one of the country’s more important exports, sold mainly to Somalia and Djibouti, and a source of income for many smallholders.

Where it grows

Grown mainly in eastern Oromia around Harar and Aweday, in the Harari region and around Dire Dawa, as well as in the south of the country and in Amhara.

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