Nestled in the Bensa District of Sidama, Ethiopia, Gatta Farm stands as a beacon of high-quality coffee production led by the dedicated Dukamo Family. Their company Daye Bensa Coffee has earned numerous accolades for its exceptional coffee collection and curation. Among their many achievements, an anaerobic coffee (we’ve already run out this year, but looking forward to featuring next season’s lot!) from Gatta Farm secured 2nd place in the prestigious Cup of Excellence competition for Ethiopia. Gatta Farm is also home to the Gafisse Washing Station, which processes the renowned Shantawene coffees that we are also proud to offer. Since 2018, the Dukamo Family's coffee has been a staple in our offerings, exemplifying their unwavering dedication to excellence.

The journey of Daye Bensa Coffee began with its founder, Asefa Dukamo. Growing up in the small city of Daye in Sidama's Bensa district, Asefa was immersed in the world of coffee from an early age. He witnessed both the beauty and the challenges of coffee farming, instilling in him a deep respect for his region’s coffee and its farmers. Asefa's vision was to create a business that could overcome the limitations faced by coffee growers, providing them with better opportunities and a brighter future.

Daye Bensa Coffee emerged as a solution to the obstacles that hindered the growth and prosperity of the local community. By offering more stable livelihoods, improved incomes, and opportunities for growth, the company has been instrumental in transforming the lives of farmers in the region. Despite producing over 20 million kilos of coffee annually, the area still struggles with inadequate infrastructure, including unreliable electricity, telecommunications, and water supply. Addressing these issues could unleash the full potential of the coffee industry, driving economic growth and improving the quality of life for the entire community.

With consistent coffee sales, the positive impact extends beyond the immediate community. As farmers' incomes grow, so does local consumption, leading to the development of businesses and the celebration of life events like weddings and graduations. The economic ripple effect reaches far and wide, gradually benefiting adjacent towns and creating a more connected and prosperous region. Investments in infrastructure, equipment, and training further enhance the industry's capacity, ensuring better yields and higher quality coffee.

One of the most exciting initiatives undertaken by Daye Bensa Coffee is the Coffee School Training Program launched at the Gatta Daye Bensa Farm. This program, which began in November 2020, aims to address the shortage of skilled personnel in the coffee industry. By focusing on coffee processing and quality control, the training seeks to fill the gap caused by the lack of an educated workforce. The program is not only about improving coffee quality but also about creating professionals who can contribute to the industry's long-term growth and sustainability.

Funds from this round of the Community Blend Give Back will be used towards supporting Daye Bensa’s Coffee School Training Program in their goal of developing 100 to 200 highly skilled young coffee professionals over the next three to four years, expanding the project to multiple stations and collaborating with higher education institutions. By investing in educational infrastructure and offering processing classes, Daye Bensa Coffee is nurturing a skilled workforce and fostering sustainable growth within the coffee industry. This holistic approach ensures that both individuals and communities benefit, paving the way for a brighter future fueled by knowledge, empowerment, and opportunities.