Coffee Berry Disease

Coffee Berry Disease, commonly referred to as CBD, is one of the most significant threats to Arabica coffee production, particularly in high-altitude regions of Africa. Caused by the fungus Colletotrichum kahawae, the disease attacks the coffee cherries at various stages of development. The most characteristic symptom is the appearance of dark, sunken lesions on the berries, which eventually turn black and mummify, rendering the fruit unharvestable.

Because the fungus spreads rapidly through spores—often carried by rain splash or wind—it can devastate an entire plantation in a single season if left unmanaged. The disease is particularly problematic because it thrives in the cool, humid conditions that are also ideal for growing high-quality Arabica. This creates a difficult paradox for farmers who must balance the need for moisture with the risk of fungal outbreaks.

Managing CBD requires a combination of cultural practices and, in many cases, the use of fungicides. Pruning and stumping are essential to improve airflow and reduce humidity within the canopy, which helps limit the spread of the fungus. Additionally, many research institutes are working to develop and distribute disease-resistant varieties, which offer a more sustainable long-term solution than chemical intervention.

In practice, the presence of Coffee Berry Disease can lead to significant economic hardship for farmers and a reduction in the global supply of specialty coffee. When a region is hit by an outbreak, the cost of production rises, and the quality of the remaining harvest may suffer. For the consumer, this underscores the importance of supporting research into disease-resistant cultivars and sustainable farming practices that help producers protect their livelihoods against such persistent biological threats.