The Kangocho factory is located along the Nairobi-Nyeri highway, just 5 km from the town of Karatina on the fertile foothills of Mt. Kenya and the Aberdare range. This factory is entirely owned by coffee growing members and overseen by an elected representative council. The soil here is rich in organic material, high in water retention capacity but also maintaining proper drainage. As this region lies in the UM1 (upper midland agro-ecological zone), we see a relatively cool climate with abundant and reliable rainfall every year. Kangocho is currently Fairtrade certified. When it comes to processing coffee, the following process ensues:
Once harvested, farmers deliver their coffee in ripe cherry where it is de-pulped using clean water diverted from the the local Ragati river channels. It then undergoes an overnight fermentation process where the sugars begin to naturally break down. The coffee is then washed through channels before being placed on raised drying beds where it is constantly turned to protect it from hot temperatures and ensure even drying. The utmost care and attention to detail is taken during this entire process.
Kangocho is also very involved with supporting and improving the skills and lives of the 781 member farmers. They employ a field supervisory committee that offers agronomical advice through constant field visits and demonstration plot maintenance. Also, Kangocho maintains several welfare initiative programs including loans for school fees and medical emergencies, farm provisions on credit, and organizing field days where large groups of farmers are trained in sustainable farming methods.
For more information on Kenyan coffee, visit our Kenya origin page.
