Problem

In Tanzania, farmers wrestle with the issue of water on a daily basis. Water management problems stem from 5% annual population growth, water-intensive agriculture, and loss of forests and vegetative cover, which causes runoff and erosion. The lack of appropriate technology for managing water is a major constraint. Coffee farmers are particularly affected, as traditional processing methods require vast amounts of water which, after milling, pollutes local water sources.

The Gift

Home of majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania contains vast biodiversity and some of Africa’s richest and most diverse flora. Tanzania’s protected areas equal the percentage of land under protection in North America and Europe.

On the slopes of Kilimanjaro, The Association of Kilimanjaro Specialty Coffee Growers (Kilicafe) grows award winning coffee. A member-owned farmer association comprising 98 member groups, they are committed to growing specialty coffee in a manner which does not degrade natural resources. Their farmland, on the highest mountain in Africa, provides habitat to many endangered African wildlife species.

They have demonstrated their commitment to sustainable farming through investments in appropriate water-saving technology, for use during the processing of their high quality coffee beans. These state-of-the-art Penagos depulping machines decrease water consumption by up to 75%. You can help support this organization, through financing from EcoLogic Finance (a social investment fund).