Despite being a relatively small producer in the world of specialty coffee, especially compared to neighbouring origins like Kenya and Ethiopia, coffee is nevertheless an important crop to Tanzania. As of writing, it is the East-African nation’s largest export crop, and production averages between 30,000 and 40,000 metric tonnes every year. Coffee was first introduced to Tanzania from Ethiopia in the 16th century, and was used by indigenous tribes for several centuries as a chewable stimulant. 

Large-scale production began with the advent of German colonisation in the late 19th century, and was expanded by British colonial rule after World War 1. Following Tanzanian independence in 1961, the liberation government took control of coffee production, but handed it back to private control after production suffered due to major government interventions, and the Tanzanian coffee industry remains privatised today.

This particular coffee, roasted by Origin Coffee Roasting, comes by way of Burka, a coffee company whose name refers to the first of now three Swiss-owned Tanzanian coffee estates located in Arusha: Burka, Selian, and Mondul. Burka takes great pride in its coffee and endeavours to sustain and develop the environment and workers responsible for it. 

Burka’s estates keep around 200 staff on-site permanently, and casual workers are brought in during peak harvest season. Permanent staff are provided with on-site accommodation, and Burka’s minimum salary is kept at 20% above the government-mandated minimum. Workers are guaranteed social security and union membership as part of their contracts, and have access to an Estate credit union which offers loans and financial guidance for health, education, and housing. Burka’s on-site accommodation also features gardens, pension lands, onsite schooling and sports facilities, and 24 hours medical services.

Burka’s estates are located near the Burka Forest, one of the last and largest indigenous forests in Arusha. Experienced conservationists and ecologists sit on Burka’s board and work to preserve the forest and the local ecology of Burka by protecting the indigenous fauna from poachers and removing invasive plant species.

Origin’s notes

• Flavour: Cranberry, chocolate cookies, raisin, caramel, red grape
• Body: Velvety
• Acidity: Low
• Roast: Light
• Suggested brewing methods: V60, plunger, espresso, milk-based drinks

Coffee details from Origin

• Country: Tanzania
• Region: Arusha
• Owners: Mondul Estate, owned by Burka estates
• Altitude: 1600 -1800 masl
• Variety: Blue Mountain, Kent, KP423, N39, Red Bourbon
• Processing: Washed