Join us for our 3rd edition of African Farmer Day with Ethos Agriculture! Farmer Day is your opportunity to connect, learn, and prepare for a successful conference experience. Designed to help you embrace The Spirit of Coffee, the day invites you to reflect on the opportunities coffee can bring and how to harness them effectively.

Through interactive sessions, practical tools, and insightful conversations, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to navigate the complexities of the specialty coffee market and engage more effectively with buyers, partners, and peers. Whether it’s setting clear goals, refining your approach, or understanding industry trends, this day is about equipping you to make the most of the conference experience.

As the day winds down with music, drinks, and networking, you’ll leave with new connections, fresh insights, and a clear sense of how the AFCA conference can support you in achieving your coffee goals and ambitions

Registration is required for this event. You can register online via the Conference Registration System or onsite.

Presentation: 1 hour, lecture-style presentation

Presenter: Judith Ganes, J Ganes Consulting 

In this presentation, renowned commodities analyst Judith Ganes, will provide an in-depth analysis of the global coffee market for 2025. This session will cover key trends, supply and demand dynamics, price forecasts, and the impact of climate, policy, and economic factors on the industry. Gain expert insights to navigate the evolving coffee landscape and make informed business decisions.

Presentation: 1 hour, panel presentation 

Panelists: Vanúsia Nogueira, International Coffee Organisation (ICO); Celestin Mutimura GATARAYIHA, Inter-African Coffee Organisation (IACO); Susanne Uittenbogaard, Global Program Manager – SUCAFINA; Joost Backer, NewForesight, and Emong Samson, Uganda Coffee Platform Manager/CEO of Café Africa Uganda.

Moderator: Christopher Wunderlich, ICO 

This panel will focus on what a unique group of leading institutions/companies and organizations are doing to improve farmers’ incomes and the economic resilience of the coffee sector.  They will discuss why and how they have prioritized improving farmers’ incomes and using methodologies like Living and Prosperous Income to do so. They will then discuss what more is needed to reach the goal of Living Prosperous Incomes and environmental sustainability for the coffee sector.  

This panel builds on last year’s panel held at the AFCA conference in Ethiopia and will center on action and the implementation of mutually supportive national, regional and international Living and Prosperous Income Strategies.

Presentation: 30 minutes, lecture-style presentation

Presenter: Juan Esteban Orduz, World Coffee Producers Forum (WCPF)

The international price of coffee is just one of many factors that impact farmers’ prosperity. Public policies, cooperation, technical support, and infrastructure -among others- also play key roles. During the World Coffee Producers Forum (WCPF) meeting in Kigali, Rwanda (February 2023), attendees supported a proposal to develop a tool to help producing countries build a structure that fosters coffee community prosperity.

Since then, the WCPF, led by Juan Esteban Orduz, has commissioned experts from the UN’s Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), Columbia University (Columbia Center on Sustainable Investments), and Oxford University (Wise Responder) -led by Professor Jeffrey D. Sachs- to create guidelines and a methodology for developing SDG-Based National Coffee Sustainability Plans and funding them. This initiative engages the entire value chain in each country, starting with the government. The deliverable will be a free “handbook” for producers, producer associations, or anyone in the coffee value chain. This work is funded by the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF).

Presentation: 1 hour + 15 minutes, panel presentation

Panelists: Maja Wallengren, SpillingTheBean Coffee News & Analysis, Kenneth Barigye, Mountain Harvest, and Philip Schluter, Covoya

Moderator: Abdallah Bagersh, BAGERSH S.A.

Recent global market trends have pushed coffee prices to unprecedented levels, creating both challenges and opportunities for African coffee producers and exporters. This dynamic market environment calls for a deeper understanding of the factors driving these price surges and practical strategies for capitalizing on them. By examining economic trends, financing realities, and trader experiences, this panel aims to shed light on the evolving landscape and empower stakeholders to optimize their business performance.

Presentation: 1 hour, panel presentation

Panelists: Diego Botello, Penagos Hermanos y Compañía S.A.S.; Kiganda Ibrahim, Mountain Harvest; and Ephrem Sebatigita, Coffee Belt East Africa

Moderator: Emma Sage, Coffee Quality Institute

In today’s competitive coffee market, consistent quality is key to meeting the demands of discerning buyers. Variations in raw material, environmental conditions, and fermentation processes can make it challenging for producers to maintain consistent cup profiles,.Using good post-harvest processing techniques allows producers to  control critical parameters—such as pH, temperature, and oxygen during fermentation and drying—to create optimal conditions and enhance overall quality.

Moreover, real-life experiences have shown that improved processing not only boosts quality but also directly translates into better business outcomes. These advancements have been made possible not just through technology but also through comprehensive coffee education and experimentation, which has empowered producers to adopt new methods and strategies that drive success.

Presentation: 30 minutes, lecture-style presentation

Presenter: Mateus Castelani Freua, Sales Manager, Pinhalense

We will explore how post-harvest technology empowers coffee growers to capture more value by improving quality, efficiency, and sustainability. Innovations like advanced drying systems and milling equipment help growers meet premium market standards and adapt to challenges such as climate change, price fluctuations, and labor shortages. We will also provide practical guidance on designing efficient processing lines to optimize operations and maintain quality.

Presentation: 1 hour, panel presentation 

Panelists: Diego Botello, Penagos Hermanos y Compañía S.A.S.; Kiganda Ibrahim, Mountain Harvest; and Ephrem Sebatigita, Coffee Belt East Africa
Moderator: Emma Sage, Coffee Quality Institute 

In today’s competitive coffee market, consistent quality is key to meeting the demands of discerning buyers. Variations in raw material, environmental conditions, and fermentation processes can make it challenging for producers to maintain consistent cup profiles,.Using good post-harvest processing techniques allows producers to  control critical parameters—such as pH, temperature, and oxygen during fermentation and drying—to create optimal conditions and enhance overall quality. 

Moreover, real-life experiences have shown that improved processing not only boosts quality but also directly translates into better business outcomes. These advancements have been made possible not just through technology but also through comprehensive coffee education and experimentation, which has empowered producers to adopt new methods and strategies that drive success.

Presentation: 1 hour, panel presentation

Panelists: Mr. Peredius Makuba, Ministry of Industry and Trade, The Republic of Tanzania, AfCFTA National Implementation Committee for Tanzania; Mr. Kamungele Kambale Kisumba, Tsonga, DRC; Dr. Rozy Rana, Managing Director, Dormans Coffee Limited; and Ms. Leah Ayoub, General Manager Commercial, Equity Bank Tanzania

Moderator: Frederick Kawuma, African Coffee Ambassador

Africa produces a lot of coffee, but most of it is exported, and people on the continent drink very little of it. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers a big chance to trade more coffee within Africa and encourage Africans to drink more coffee. However, there are challenges like rules for trading, transport, and financing.

This session will bring together experts, policymakers, and coffee traders to discuss how to use AfCFTA to grow coffee trade in Africa. They will share ideas on boosting coffee consumption, the challenges traders face, and how financial tools can help support the coffee sector.

Presentation: 1 hour + 15 minutes, panel presentation 

Panelists: Maja Wallengren, SpillingTheBean Coffee News & Analysis, Kenneth Barigye, Mountain Harvest, and Philip Schluter, Covoya 

Moderator:  Abdallah Bagersh, BAGERSH S.A.

Recent global market trends have pushed coffee prices to unprecedented levels, creating both challenges and opportunities for African coffee producers and exporters. This dynamic market environment calls for a deeper understanding of the factors driving these price surges and practical strategies for capitalizing on them. By examining economic trends, financing realities, and trader experiences, this panel aims to shed light on the evolving landscape and empower stakeholders to optimize their business performance.

Presentation: 1 hour + 15 minutes, panel presentation

Panelists: Mr. Shabaan Maregesi, Head of Agribusiness, CRDB Bank plc; Mr. Christopher Mwalugenge, Head Agri Wholesale NMB Bank Plc; Mr. Jeremy Mpalampa, Regional General Manager, Kyagalanyi Coffee Ltd, Uganda – Volcafe Group; and Dr. Aikande Kwayu, Director, Bumaco Insurance & Executive Director, Cafe Africa Tanzania

Moderator: Jeremy Lefroy, Executive Director of Association, Café Africa

Trading coffee can be unpredictable, with challenges like price changes, trade rules, and high transportation costs making it risky for African farmers and traders. To help maximize profits and grow the coffee trade, it’s essential to have the right financial tools, trade systems, and support in place. Addressing regional differences and improving access to finance are key to making African coffee trade more competitive under the AfCFTA.

This session will bring together finance experts, traders, and stakeholders to explore strategies for managing risks in coffee trade. Discussions will cover financing solutions for coffee.

Presentation: 1 hour + 15 minutes, panel presentation

Panelists: Elena Serfillippi, Committee on Sustainability Assessment (COSA); Jeanine Niyonzima-Aroian, JNP Coffee; and Jacob Hall, Aid Data

Moderator: Andy Hodges, Committee on Sustainability Assessment (COSA)

How can agile data tools transform decision-making and supply chain management?

Join us for a live edition of the Sustainability Unplugged: Agile Data in Action series, where we’ll:

• Showcase real-time agile data collection tools in action
• Explore their advantages in driving faster and smarter decision-making
• Share insights from the field on how organizations are leveraging these tools
• Engage in a collaborative discussion on innovative opportunities

Presentation: 1 hour + 15 minutes, lecture-style presentation

Presenter: Paul Stewart, TechnoServe

Cup quality is the principal driver of a coffee’s market value and the income that farmers earn. While it is generally understood that pulper calibration, cherry ripeness and fermentation techniques influence coffee cup quality, efforts to quantify these impacts have been limited. As a result, coffee washing station management often prioritizes efficiency over these considerations. This session will present findings from field trials that TechnoServe’s partner Arkena conducted in Yirgacheffe, Ethiopia that demonstrated how much money is being lost due to poor pulper calibration and the impact of cherry ripeness and fermentation technique on cup quality.

By Stephen Kithuka, Solidaridad East and Central Africa

Panelists: Dr. Erika Koss, A World In Your Cup Consulting, Linda Mugaruka, Coffee Consultant & YETU QAHWAH

Moderator: Elizabeth Mbau, Tchibo

By Fanueal Samson, DHL Express

Presentation: 30 minutes, lecture-style presentation

Presenters: Gilles Brunner & Luiza Pereira Furquim, Algrano 

Roasters are increasingly seeking direct trade relationships with producers worldwide. In an industry shaken by supply chain volatility, EUDR regulations, and consolidations, these partnerships bring stability: year-on-year quality and consistency for roasters, and predictable sales for producers. Together, roasters and producers can negotiate prices and plan their operations with confidence.

 But selling directly to roasters is a whole different game from selling to exporters and traders. And for those already working with roasters, getting closer to your customers without an office at your destination can be challenging. So, how can producers position themselves to strengthen these direct relationships? That’s where Algrano comes in.

For nearly a decade, Algrano’s award-winning direct trade marketplace has helped producers in over 20 countries access global markets. Now, the platform is evolving to offer a new range of tools and services that go beyond market access. These solutions are designed to help producers strengthen existing relationships, win new business, and grow their operations—all while staying independent and in control.

 In this lecture, you’ll learn about Algrano’s logistics and sales tools, designed for producers already working with international buyers. Explore how the platform can help you ease cash flow pressures with an innovative pre-financing system, and find out how you can get reliable sales support in key markets, with on-the-ground insights into your buyers’ needs. 

Presentation: Two-Part, Collaborative Session

Session Organized by: Committee on Sustainability Assessment (COSA), Sustainable Agriculture for Forest Ecosystems (SAFE), European Forest Institute (EFI), and the International Coffee Organisation (ICO)

The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is a game-changer for global supply chains. It demands alignment, transparency, and joint action—but how do we turn compliance into an opportunity for sustainable growth?

Join us for “Empowering Collaboration for EUDR Compliance & Sustainability”, a live edition of Sustainability Unplugged ‘EUDR Ready or Not?’ series, where key stakeholders will explore solutions and shape the future of responsible supply chains.

What to Expect:

• Key Updates on the latest EUDR developments
• Challenges Mapped—insights from global initiatives in different sectors
• Real-World Perspectives from Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia & more
• Interactive Collaboration to unlock compliance solutions

Speakers & Panelists throughout the day include:

• Hannelore Beerlandt – Head of Operations, International Coffee Organization (ICO)
• Thomas Sembres – Value Chain & Sustainable Land-Use Expert, EFI
• Primus Kimaryo – Director General, Tanzania Coffee Board
• Gizat Worku – General Manager, Ethiopian Coffee Association
• Brian King – Senior Manager, Technology Integration, Alliance Biodiversity & CIAT/CGIAR

And many more!

Presentation: 30 minutes, lecture-style presentation

Presenter: Theresa Frank, HereWeGrow

Discover how Social Return on Investment (SROI) can enhance coffee sustainability efforts by ensuring every dollar invested delivers measurable impact. Theresa Frank from HereWeGrow will share insights on how SROI supports data-driven decisions, maximizes farmer income, and improves program effectiveness. Learn why SROI is essential for creating meaningful change in coffee communities and why it matters to every sustainability-focused coffee actor!

Presentation: 30 minutes, lecture-style presentation

Presenters: Massimo Battaglia, Accademia del Caffè Espresso

Accademia del Caffè Espresso, CISCO, and PNAT have launched ConSenso, a groundbreaking research project in Tanzania’s Mbeya region to study how climate change affects Arabica coffee plants. Using solar-powered IoT sensors and Cisco’s LoRaWAN technology, researchers are collecting real-time data on plant health, hydration, and environmental conditions at Utengule Coffee Farm. The project also monitors carbon storage, tracking the role of coffee and shade trees in CO₂ absorption. Insights from this research will help develop global guidelines for coffee resilience, ensuring more sustainable and climate-adaptive farming practices.

Join us for the AFCA Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Friday, February 28th at 1:00 PM in Mkomazi Hall. This key session brings together AFCA members to discuss organizational updates, strategic plans, and industry developments. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with coffee sector leaders and shape the future of African coffee. Lunch will be provided.