Before coffee became a morning ritual around the world, its story began in the forests of Ethiopia. The country is recognised as the birthplace of wild Arabica coffee (Coffea arabica), the species behind much of the coffee enjoyed today.

In Ethiopia’s Kafa region, wild Arabica coffee still grows naturally, with thousands of varieties found across the area. According to the UNESCO, Kafa is the birthplace of wild Arabica coffee and contains close to 5,000 wild varieties of the plant in this biodiversity hotspot.

Coffee is also deeply woven into Ethiopian culture. The traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, involving roasting, grinding and brewing coffee in front of guests, remains an important social tradition.

From wild coffee forests in Ethiopia to cafés and kitchens around the world, coffee has travelled a remarkable journey, while remaining connected to its African roots.

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