Habtamu Fikadu Wet Mill

Habtamu Fekadu Aga is a third-generation coffee grower whose operations are centered in the Kuri kebele of the Sidama region. The enterprise, known as Kuri Mountain Coffee, was formally established in 2015 by Aaga Dinsa, who inherited the foundational farm from his grandfather. This legacy of smallholder farming serves as the core of a much larger, modern export operation that has gained recognition for its commitment to quality and community development.

The scale of the operation is substantial, encompassing a 105-hectare estate in Kuri kebele. Beyond this primary land, the company manages a vast network of over 140 registered outgrowers, covering an additional 837 hectares. These outgrowers contribute coffee cherries to company-owned washing stations located across key coffee-producing regions, including Wolega, Guji, and Jimma, allowing for a diverse range of regional profiles under the Habtamu Fekadu Aga name.

A pivotal moment in the history of this producer occurred in 2017, following the liberalization of the Ethiopian coffee export system. Prior to this regulatory shift, the farm was required to sell its production through the Ethiopian Commodity Exchange (ECX). The change in law allowed the operation to engage in direct export, providing greater control over the supply chain and enabling the producer to build direct relationships with international roasters.

In practice, the operation is noted for its rigorous selection and processing methods. Coffees from these washing stations, particularly those from the Guji region, are frequently processed as washed lots using traditional methods, often involving drying on raised beds for 9 to 12 days. These lots are known for vibrant, complex profiles featuring notes of floral orange, peach tea, and high acidity, with some lots achieving cupping scores exceeding 88 points.

Beyond production, the organization maintains a strong focus on social and environmental responsibility. The company holds organic and Fair for Life certifications, which underscore its commitment to ethical standards. A portion of their export revenue—specifically $0.12 per pound—along with 5% of total profits, is reinvested into community development initiatives, including the provision of food, clothing, schooling, and the improvement of local infrastructure such as roads.

For the roaster and the consumer, the Habtamu Fekadu Aga tag represents a bridge between traditional Ethiopian heirloom cultivation and modern, transparent supply chains. By managing both the primary estate and a large outgrower network, the operation ensures a level of consistency and quality control that is often difficult to achieve in smallholder-heavy regions. This structure has made their coffee a staple for specialty roasters seeking high-quality, traceable, and socially conscious Ethiopian single-origins.