Bekele Gemeda

From the highlands of Yirgacheffe, this lot by Mr. Bekele Gemeda offers a rare, traceable taste of Ethiopian coffee. Grown with care in the village of Worka, it reflects the dedication of a single farmer and the vibrant flavors of the region.

This exceptional single-producer lot comes from the Worka village in Yirgacheffe, carefully cultivated by Mr. Bekele Gemeda and his family. With 9.5 hectares of coffee farm across two locations, Mr. Bekele, a father of 11, works full-time alongside his children to produce coffee that not only sustains his family but also showcases the rich terroir of the Yirgacheffe highlands.

In a country where smallholder farmers often see their coffee blended into regional lots, having Mr. Bekele's coffee kept separate is a testament to its refined quality. Through the Single Farmer Project by Cafe Imports, this lot has been brought to market with full traceability—a rarity in Ethiopia's coffee industry. This initiative connects individual farmers with roasters who value transparency, relationship-building, and long-term sustainability.

The washed process at Mr. Bekele's local washing station involves careful selection of ripe cherries, same-day depulping, and an 8–12 hour fermentation period. The beans are then washed in water channels to remove mucilage and dried on raised beds for up to 15 days. This approach results in a clean, vibrant cup that celebrates the hard work of the farmer and the unique characteristics of the Yirgacheffe region.

By choosing this coffee, you support a movement that empowers Ethiopian producers like Mr. Bekele with a direct marketplace, fair pricing, and well-deserved recognition for their craftsmanship.