The Status Of Coffee Production And The Potential For Organic Conversion In Ethiopia

Abstract

The collapse of world coffee prices is con tributing to a socio-economic decline affecting an estimate of 125 million people world-wide. In Ethiopia, the fall in farmer and government revenues amounted to 42% within a year. In the country some of the major coffee growing regions were visited and intensive discussions on coffee production and marketing with farmers, advisors, traders and researchers were held on. The conclusion was drawn that Ethiopia has the potentials to produce certified organic high quality coffee due to favourable growing conditions and the high diversity of genetic resources in Coffea arabica. Currently, certified organic coffee production accounts for only an estimate of 0.1% of the total national production. Coffee farmers convert to organic production in expectation of higher revenues. Conversion to organic coffee production may, however, result in a significant decrease of crop productivity. Multi-disciplinary research activities on sustainable organic coffee production systems are expected to boost production and promote high quality coffee. Various agronomic and socio-economic research programmes are highly needed. A key focal point is efficient nutrient management by composting coffee husks/pulps, and green manuring by mixed planting of suitable legumes. Moreover, a systematic screening of cultivars with respect to potential use in organic coffee production is recommended. Aspects of taste and quality of coffee deserve special attention as well. Fair Trade organic coffee impacts on rural development in Ethiopia by providing options to stabilise the market for organic growers. Furthermore, the consumer is provided with a range of new products. That could help alleviate the coffee crises and improve social and environmental stability.