THE PRODUCERS:
Bukonzo Organic Farmers Co-operative Union was started in 2009 to try and increase the prices gained
by farmers for their coffee production. This region of SW Uganda has historically been made up of home
processed and natural coffees of lower commercial qualities. Recognising the excellent growing condi-
tions for arabica production, Bukonzo invested in 36 local micro washing stations designed to process high
quality fully washed coffees, as well as securing organic certification for their farmers. This approach has
allowed an increase in premiums reaching the farmers in what is one of the most impoverished parts of
the country, creating a sustainable industry for which they can provide for their families.
Bukonzo also place a large emphasis on environmental sustainability, using organic fertilisers from local
livestock and intercropping with bananas, beans, fruit trees, coco-yams, vanilla, passionfruit, and mango
trees.
THE ART OF PRODUCTION:
Red ripe cherries are carefully selected and delivered to the washing station on the day of harvest then
placed in a flotation tank to separate by density. The cherries which sink to the bottom (the highest quali-
ty) are separated for processing. After removing the outer pulp the coffee is fermented without water for
around 24 hours, depending on climatic conditions. The coffee parchment is then washed in clean water
channels. The wet parchment is dried in the sun on raised beds for 3 days, followed by shade drying until
the coffee has reached a moisture content of 12%. They must be frequently turned to ensure consistent
drying. The dried parchment is then devliered to the co-op’s central drymill and rested before being hulled,
graded by bean size and bagged in Grainpro for export.
THE REGION:
Situated at the feet of the Rwenzori mountains just north of Lake George, the region around Kasese has ex-
cellent conditions for speciality Arabica production with some of the highest altitude in Uganda, fertile soil
and plentiful rainfall. However widespread poverty and a lack of infrastructure, as well as the political up-
heavel in Uganda over the past 40 years has meant this region has struggled to realise its full potential for
speciality arabica production. Organisations such as Bukonzo Co-Operative are leading the way in realising
this potential and returning it to its status as a respected speciality arabica producing region in Uganda.
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