Bunna Park

Discover The Kaffa Zone In Ethiopia.

Kaffa Zone

Deep in Southwest Ethiopia, there's a place called Kefa. This isn't just any place; Kefa is the birthplace of coffee, the magical elixir that jump-starts our mornings and fuels our creative passions. It all started here. Imagine lush forests, misty mountains, and the aroma of coffee beans roasting over an open fire. That's Kefa.

For centuries, this region has been synonymous with coffee. The very word coffee is believed to have originated from Kefa. Coffee is more than a drink here; it's woven into the fabric of their history, culture, and daily life. Every day in Kefa, the story of coffee unfolds from the farmers who carefully cultivate the beans to the families who share a pot after a long day. Coffee is a ritual, a connection to the past, and a celebration of the present.

Legend has it that coffee was discovered by a goat herder named Kaldi. Kaldi noticed his goats were extra frisky after eating berries from a particular tree. He tried the berries himself and felt energized. This is how the coffee plant was supposedly first recognized. The story of Kaldi is likely a myth, but it reflects the deep connection between Kefa and coffee.

Historical evidence suggests that coffee cultivation and consumption have existed in Kefa for over a thousand years. The region's ideal climate and fertile soil create the perfect conditions for growing Arabica coffee, the most popular type of coffee bean in the world.

From Kefa, coffee spread throughout Ethiopia and eventually the world. Trade routes carried these precious beans across continents, sparking a global love affair with the beverage. But it all began in the heart of Kefa.

The people of Kefa have a rich culture that's deeply intertwined with coffee. Coffee ceremonies are an integral part of their social life, marking special occasions and everyday moments. These ceremonies are more than just brewing and drinking coffee; they're about community, hospitality, and sharing stories.

During a traditional Kefa coffee ceremony, green coffee beans are roasted in a flat pan, filling the air with an intoxicating aroma. The roasted beans are ground by hand and brewed in a clay pot called a jabena. The coffee is served in small handleless cups, and it's considered impolite to refuse a cup. Coffee is a symbol of respect and friendship in Kefa; it's a way of life passed down through generations.

Today, Kefa remains a vital coffee-producing region. The forests of Kefa are a UNESCO biosphere reserve, recognized for their biodiversity and the sustainable coffee farming practices of the local communities. The people of Kefa are working hard to preserve their coffee heritage and protect the environment.

Kefa is a reminder that behind every cup of coffee is a story—a story of farmers, families, and traditions that have been passed down for generations. The next time you enjoy a cup of coffee, take a moment to appreciate the journey it took to get to you, from the misty mountains of Kefa to your cup. It's a journey worth savoring.