Aragash Gelche, Ethiopia

Process: Washed
Notes: Black Tea, Blackberry

Aragash Gelcha farms in Halo Shashemene village, Halo Bariti kebele, in the Gedeb district of Ethiopia’s Gedio zone—an area long celebrated for producing some of Yirgacheffe’s most expressive coffees.

On her five-hectare farm, Aragash grows coffee as her primary cash crop, intercropped with enset (false banana) and fruit trees that help feed her family of twelve—six daughters and six sons. The farm reflects a deeply rooted, diversified system designed for both resilience and nourishment.

In 2018, changes to Ethiopia’s coffee export regulations opened the door for smallholders to export their own coffee directly. Although Aragash secured an export license, the past seven years have brought persistent challenges. Systemic constraints and logistical hurdles have made it difficult to consistently access stable, transparent, and fair markets.

Still, the work continues. Together, Aragash and her family produce an average of 800 kilograms of green coffee per hectare. During the off-season, the entire household is involved—applying careful agronomic practices and tending the land with long-term sustainability in mind. The result is a farm shaped by commitment, collaboration, and an unwavering belief in the value of their coffee.

Our first Ethiopian of 2026 and this one is sure to be a roastery favourite!