Echemo

The story

Echemo is a 35-hectare farm located in the Goma district of Jimma, Ethiopia, currently managed by third-generation farmer Khalid Shifa. The land was originally forested, but much of the native vegetation was historically cleared for firewood and building materials. Khalid inherited the farm from his father and is now working to restore the land through agroforestry practices.

Challenges

The farm previously faced environmental degradation due to the historical removal of native forest trees. Additionally, the farm was limited in its processing capabilities until the recent construction of an on-site washed mill.

Innovations

Khalid Shifa has implemented significant sustainability efforts by re-planting native trees to create a resilient agro-forest system. He has also improved quality control by building a new washed mill, separating daily harvest lots, utilizing shade nets for drying, and storing coffee in sealed Grain Pro bags.