Kapkiyai Washed, Kenya

Description:

Tasting notes:

Black tea, currants and floral.

Coffee info:

• Producer: Kapkiyai Multipurpose Cooperative Society
• Location: Songhor, Nandi County, Kenya
• Elevation: 1,900 to 2000 masl
• Variety: Ruiru 11 
• Process: Fully Washed

More info about this coffee:

Since its establishment in 2000, Kapkiyai Multipurpose Cooperative Society Ltd has blossomed from a small group of 12 individuals in search of fair prices for their coffee, to a thriving community of 1,007 registered members. Of these, 824 actively engage in the cooperative, including 346 women (an increase from 324) and 271 youth (a significant rise from 119).

The cherry selection process begins with member farmers handpicking only ripe, red cherries and transporting them to the cooperative's washing station. A cherry clerk is present at intake to monitor the delivery and ensure the high quality of the cherries. The cherries are then meticulously sorted, floated, and weighed before being accepted and pulped. Following this, the coffee is fermented and the parchment is thoroughly washed with clean water before being placed on raised beds for a 14-day drying period. During this time, workers regularly rake the parchment to promote even and consistent drying.

Ruiru 11 is a hybrid of Catimor and SL cultivars, known for its resistance to Coffee Berry Disease (CBD) and Coffee Leaf Rust (CLR). With the added benefit of being able to be planted at a higher density than the SL varieties, Ruiru 11 has become a popular choice among Kenyan coffee farmers. However, some farmers have found that the plant is less hardy in drought conditions and requires a more intense feeding program due to its shallow root structure. To combat this, many have turned to grafting Ruiru 11 onto SL varieties, allowing them to take advantage of the expansive root system of the SL trees while still reaping the benefits of increased yields and disease resistance.

Kapkiyai is part of a group of producers chosen to benefit from the Trace Kenya Initiative, a program by the Solidaridad Network that focuses on improving farmers' skills in climate-smart practices, agroforestry, intercropping, and organic agriculture. It is specifically implemented in the western region of Kenya (Kericho, Nandi, and Bungoma Counties) with a focus on involving women and youth in the coffee industry.