Day 23 of RISE Coffee Countdown Calendar - Uganda, Ibanda
Origin: Uganda
This coffee has been selected by Ben and Alice after meeting with the farmers in Uganda in 2023. We have since set up The Friendly Coffee Fund to give back 1% of all of our revenue to these farmers and their families.
Location: Ibanda, Western Uganda, Rwenzori Mountains
Altitude: 1800-2,200+ masl
Bean: Arabica
Process: Natural
Certifications: Organic pending
Tasting notes: Nutmeg, chocolate, toffee
Why Alice and Ben love it: After months of research and meeting coffee farmer RiSE founders Alice and Ben found the perfect house coffee. Our Ugandan speciality coffee gives back 1% of all sales revenue to coffee farmers to help educate their children in coffee growing communities and help prevent child labour. This is the perfect coffee to fit your morning caffeine needs. It is bold, smooth, delicious and planet friendly. Unusually it is a blend of 75% washed and 25% natural coffee which gives it a smooth but juicy flavour. All our coffee is hand roasted weekly, on a 12kg Geisen, in Brixton.
A versatile coffee suitable for espresso and filter brewing. We like it best as a V60!
About Ibanda, the farmers and the region:
Ibanda, Uganda, is an emerging coffee-growing region known for its potential to produce high-quality Arabica coffee. Nestled in western Uganda, near the borders of Rwenzori Mountains National Park and the Great Rift Valley, the area offers unique conditions that make it ideal for specialty coffee cultivation. Its an area Alice and Ben spent some time in last year, meeting with coffee farmers to understand their challenges and learn about the supply chain from bean to cup.
Here's what makes the Ibanda region stand out:
1. Geography and Climate
- High Elevations: Coffee in Ibanda is grown at altitudes ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 metres above sea level. These high altitudes allow for slow bean maturation, leading to complex flavours.
- Volcanic Soil: The fertile, mineral-rich soil, often linked to the region's volcanic geology, supports the growth of high-quality coffee plants.
- Mild Climate: The region has consistent rainfall and cool temperatures, which are crucial for Arabica coffee production.
2. Types of Coffee Grown
- Arabica Coffee: Most coffee grown in Ibanda is Arabica, prized for its nuanced flavour profiles.
- SL14 and SL28 Varieties: Commonly cultivated in the region, these are known for their high quality and resistance to certain diseases.
- Shade-Grown Coffee: Many farmers practice shade-growing, which enhances biodiversity and improves bean quality.
3. Flavour Profile of Ibanda Coffee
While the region’s specialty coffee is still gaining global recognition, the flavour profile of Ibanda coffee is often characterised by:
- Acidity: Bright and vibrant, with citrusy or berry-like qualities.
- Sweetness: Hints of caramel, honey, or brown sugar.
- Flavour Notes: Fruity and floral undertones, often with hints of tropical fruits, chocolate, or nuts.
- Body: Medium to full, with a smooth and velvety texture.
4. Role in Uganda’s Coffee Industry
- Arabica Expansion: Ibanda is part of a broader effort to increase Arabica coffee production in Uganda, complementing traditional coffee-growing regions like Mount Elgon and Rwenzori.
- Improving Quality: With the rise of cooperatives and support from NGOs, farmers in Ibanda are focusing on producing specialty-grade coffee for the global market.
- Sustainable Farming Practices: Many farms emphasise organic and sustainable practices, which appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
5. Processing Methods
- Washed (Wet) Process: Most coffee from Ibanda is wet-processed, which highlights the bright acidity and clean flavours in the cup.
- Natural and Honey Processes: These methods are being explored to add fruity and complex notes, catering to specialty coffee enthusiasts.
6. Challenges Faced by Ibanda Farmers
- Market Access: Many smallholder farmers struggle to reach international markets, limiting their ability to earn premium prices.
- Climate Change: Erratic weather patterns can affect coffee yields and quality.
- Infrastructure: Limited access to modern processing facilities can lead to inconsistencies in quality.
7. Community and Economic Importance
Coffee farming in Ibanda supports thousands of smallholder farmers and their families. The growth of specialty coffee in the region is helping:
- Boost incomes through premium coffee sales.
- Foster community-driven development projects.
- Attract investments in infrastructure and education.
8. Future Potential of Ibanda Coffee
- Specialty Market Growth: With its high altitudes and favourable growing conditions, Ibanda has the potential to become a recognised name in the global specialty coffee scene.
- Sustainability Initiatives: Increased focus on organic and shade-grown coffee could further enhance the region’s reputation.
- Cooperatives and Export Support: Local cooperatives and partnerships with global organisations are helping farmers improve their coffee quality and access new markets.
Conclusion
Ibanda, Uganda, is a promising coffee region with a blend of natural advantages, traditional farming practices, and growing global interest. Its bright, fruity flavours and sustainable farming practices make it a region to watch in the specialty coffee world. Supporting coffee from Ibanda not only provides an exceptional cup but also contributes to the livelihoods of hardworking Ugandan farmers.
