Africa Barista Championship
About the Africa Barista Championship
The African Barista Championship is a regional barista competition that takes place at the African Fine Coffees Conference and Exhibition each year. Prior to the championship, national competitions take place in AFCA member countries, independently organized by AFCA or in partnership with local governments or other national coffee organizations.
The Africa Barista Championship prioritizes participation of AFCA members but is not exclusive. At each national competition, the top three highest scoring baristas are nominated to compete for the regional title at the conference.
2023-2024 in Review
AFCA hosted the Africa Barista Championship from February 6-10, 2024 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia during the 20th African Fine Coffees Conference and Exhibition. A total of 15 baristas competed from seven African countries over the three days. The competitors were graded by a panel of six expert judges, from Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. The top three spots were dominated by Kenya and Uganda, whose bios are featured below.
1st Place – Africa Barista Championship 2024
Name: Kennedy Owino
Country: Kenya
Starting as a steward washing utensils, I found my passion for coffee and was mentored by Martin Shabaya. Now, as Head Barista at Amka Cafe and Mawimbi Seafood Restaurant, my goal is to become the world’s top barista. I’m inspired by the craft’s endless possibilities.
2nd Place – Africa Barista Championship 2024
Name: Teresia Maina
Country: Kenya
Beginning as a coffee shop intern in 2015, I moved up to barista after showing interest. Attending the Nairobi School of Coffee at Dormans Coffee Ltd in 2017 boosted my skills. I volunteered as a barista and assistant trainer for about six months. Despite not doing great in events like the Aeropress Championship 2017 and Kenya National Barista Championship 2018, my love for coffee grew. This ongoing journey in coffee fills me with gratitude and keeps me striving to learn and improve.
3rd Place – Africa Barista Championship 2024
Name: Ibrahim Kiganda
Country: Uganda
I initially got involved in coffee in 2015 when I was still at university pursuing a bachelors in Biotechnology by a friend who invited me for a cup of coffee at his hostel. He happened to be the President of the University Coffee Club. I started learning as much about coffee as I could, until I earned an internship and began my research studies at the National Coffee Research Institute (NaCORI). I later joined the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) where I was introduced to tasting (quality control) and brewing. Finally, I took part in the inter-university barista competitions, which eventually led me to where I am today. Currently, I am employed as a Quality and Processing Manager at Mountain Harvest SMC Ltd.
Being a barista is my inspiration. It’s an opportunity to showcase one’s skills, while also showcasing the beauty of Ugandan coffees, unveiling new innovations and improving taste experiences.
Looking Ahead
The 2024-2025 competition schedule is coming soon. Stay tuned for more information!
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