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The spread of organised coffee cultivation in Ethiopia - as related by lsrael Degefa.
Coffee spread to the highland areas of Sidamo where the trees are newer. In my home area, the trees can be 65-85 years old. Trees this mature no longer produce good, flavoursome coffee but farmers have been resistant to replanting due to the perceived interruption in their income. On a side note, in response to this issue Kerchanshe now runs a range of ...
Women Empowerment
Women Empowerment at Kerchanshe Coffee: Driving Change from Ground Up
At Kerchanshe Coffee, women empowerment is not just a goal but a core value integrated into our operations. As the largest coffee producer and exporter in Ethiopia, Kerchanshe Coffee believes that empowering women leads to stronger communities, better livelihoods, and higher-quality coffee production. Our initiatives aim to support women in every part of the value chain, from the farms to the executive boardroom.
Key Initiatives for Women Empowerment:
1. Employment Opportunities:
Kerchanshe Coffee actively hires women at all levels, offering them equal pay and opportunities in positions such as farm workers, coffee sorters, processing staff, and administrative roles. Over 30% of our workforce comprises women, with many taking on leadership positions in managing coffee washing stations, overseeing quality control, and working in logistics.
2. Capacity Building and Training:
We offer extensive training programs to equip women with the skills they need to succeed in the coffee industry. These programs include financial literacy, leadership, and technical skills related to coffee cultivation, processing, and quality assurance. By fostering these capabilities, we ensure that women have the tools to grow their careers and contribute meaningfully to the coffee sector.
3. Women in Leadership:
We are proud to have women in leadership roles across Kerchanshe Coffee. From managing washing stations to serving in executive positions, women at Kerchanshe are at the forefront of decision-making processes. Their leadership ensures that women's perspectives and needs are integrated into every facet of our operations.
4. Social Responsibility Programs:
As part of our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, Kerchanshe Coffee runs several programs focused on improving women’s access to education, healthcare, and clean water in coffee-growing communities. Through our NGO initiatives, we build schools and healthcare facilities, with a particular emphasis on supporting girls' education and women’s health.
Impact Stories
Chaltu, Coffee Farmer from Sidamo
“Before Kerchanshe’s programs, I struggled to manage my farm and access markets. With the support and training I received, I expanded my coffee plot and tripled my income in just three years. I now employ other women from my community, and together, we produce high-quality coffee that reaches international markets.“
Tigist, coffee copper at kerchanshe
“It’s empowering to be in a leadership role where my decisions directly impact the quality of coffee we produce. Kerchanshe provided the mentorship and tools I needed to excel in this position, and I’m proud to be part of an organization that prioritizes women’s success.“
Commitment to Long-Term Change
Kerchanshe Coffee remains dedicated to fostering an environment where women can thrive both professionally and personally. By providing resources, education, and leadership opportunities, we are helping women shape not only the future of coffee but the future of their communities.
Through our focus on gender equity, we believe that empowering women is key to the sustainable growth of the coffee industry and the betterment of Ethiopian society as a whole.