Ethiopian Coffee Development Pilot Closes in Jimma

Jimma Zone Coffee Pilot Project

Jima Zone, Seka Chekorsa Woreda - The implementation of the Cafe Project pilot, launched by the indigenous NGO Light for the World, was visited and handed over during a closing ceremony attended by senior officials including Hon. Ato Tagay Nuru, Deputy Director General of the Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority.

The project aims to engage Disabled People's Associations in Jimma Zone and Jimma City in coffee cultivation and value-added production. With support from the Woreda administration, the association received coffee plantation land, 5,000 seedlings, and value-addition equipment including roasting, grinding and packaging machines.

Light for the World provided technology and Chiesheir implemented procurement, with financial support from GIZ. A 200 m² area was allocated for machinery and a 35 m² shed built for protection. The locally manufactured grinder and other machines include dust collection and waste disposal features to minimize environmental impact.

Value-Added Production and Market Access

Training on machine operation was delivered by experts, and a local marketing arrangement was agreed between the Seka Chekorsa and Jimma associations to ensure a sustainable value chain. Officials urged beneficiaries to maintain the resources responsibly and continue coordination for future projects.

The ceremony featured speeches from ECTA leadership and partner organizations emphasizing capacity building, inclusion, and the project's potential to integrate persons with disabilities into coffee sector livelihoods.

Report by: Ashenafi Getahun