In the Bale region of Ethiopia, coffee is not just a crop—it is the lifeline for many families. This area has endured decades of internal conflict and political unrest, which severely impacted the economy and infrastructure. As a result, coffee production lagged behind neighboring renowned regions like Yirgacheffe and Guji, making exports relatively difficult.

Supported by Caritas Switzerland, the uniqueBean program provides local farmers with professional training, helps them establish comprehensive traceability systems, and connects them directly with buyers who value sustainable development. Through these efforts, farmers have successfully accessed export markets and increased their income. This initiative also enables them to create a stable livelihood by integrating coffee cultivation with home gardens, poultry, and beekeeping in a sustainable, diversified ecosystem, paving the way for a new life.

In collaboration with Felisa Tsegaye and the Burka Yadot Farmers’ Cooperative in the Bale region, uniqueBean has carefully cultivated a local coffee variety known for its distinctive floral aroma and rich flavor. Each bean carries the resilience of the land and the hope of the community.

This coffee from Bale is a crystallization of resilience and hope. It transforms lives, carries the efforts of one generation, and paves the way for the next.