Every year, we are fortunate to travel to the countries where our coffee originates, meeting face-to-face with the coffee producers. These visits are about more than direct trade—they are about connection, understanding, and fostering a shared vision for sustainability and quality. 

 

This year, we reflect on one of our long-standing partnerships with Kieni, a cooperative in Kenya. The impact of direct trade comes to life through the story of Gerald Mwangi, a farmer whose journey demonstrates how higher pay can transform lives. 

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Gerald Mwangi delivers about 90% of his harvest to the Kieni wet mill. Coffee farming has been a vital source of income for Gerald's family for nearly five decades, a tradition he grew up with, helping his mother prune, mulch, and pick on their small plot of land. In 2003, Gerald inherited 0.2 hectares of land. Thanks to consistent and higher payments from Kieni, he has expanded his farm to 1.8 hectares over the past two decades. 

 

This growth is more than a personal success. Gerald now provides seasonal jobs to 40 workers during peak harvest, supporting families across his community. His achievements have inspired others to adopt sustainable practices and focus on quality, creating a ripple effect that benefits the entire region. 

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Stories like Gerald’s remind us why we choose to trade directly and pay a Quality Bonus. They reaffirm our belief that when farmers are paid fairly and consistently, they gain the security to invest in their future, strengthen their communities, and elevate the quality of the coffee we are privileged to enjoy. 

 

We are humbled to work with people like Gerald and to share their exceptional coffees with you, year after year.