Kenya - Kirinyaga

During peak season, the factory employs approximately 25 temporary workers, while during low season, it employs a maximum of five temporary workers. The factory is located at an altitude of approximately 1,619 meters above sea level. The area has reddish soils and receives moderate bimodal rainfall of approximately 1,400 mm annually, with temperatures ranging from 13 to 24 degrees Celsius. Long rains occur between March and May, while short rains occur between October and December. The region has a biennial production cycle, with the early harvest occurring from April to June and the late harvest from October to December.

The main coffee varieties cultivated are SL34, 28, and Ruiru 11. 28 represents 99% of all coffee produced, while Ruiru 11 represents 1% of total production. After harvest, all coffee is delivered to the factory and undergoes a wet processing process. Water is pumped from the Kii River to pulping and recirculation tanks.

After pulping, the coffee is stored overnight, washed, soaked, and spread on drying tables. The parchment is then frequently turned over on drying tables, sorted, and stored.

To ensure efficient processing, the factory invested in a pulper, a recirculation system, and approximately 20 conditioning hoppers.

ABOUT THE COUNTRY

Although Kenya is a neighboring country of Ethiopia, it started producing coffee relatively late when the first plants were brought by French missionaries from Reunion - references indicate that the first variety to be brought was Bourbon.

The coffees produced here are known for their intense and bright acidity, sweetness and complex notes of berries and fruit.