Etiopien Tibebu Roba Farm

In Chelchele Kebele in Ethiopia's Yirgacheffe region, we find the coffee farmer - and preacher Tibebu Robawho, at an altitude of 2,100 metres, runs an 8,298-hectare coffee farm together with his wife. We have visited them several times, most recently when our head roaster was there during last year's harvest. Tibebu is a great inspiration to other producers in the area; his dedication and care were evident in every part of the extremely well-maintained farm. Visiting the Roba family is always the absolute highlight of the trip, and we are proud to now be roasting their naturally dried coffee for the second time (which has won several competitions in previous years).

The coffee has a fine berry acidity with a great mouthfeel. The sweetness is really high with a taste of lychee, tropical fruit and with a smooth fullness. All in all a great natural coffee from an inspiring and visionary producer. 

Tibebu has mostly Kurume and Wolisho varietals on the farm. They are planted in six separate blocks, which are divided according to plant age and productivity. All of the coffee is processed using the natural method where the cherry is spread out on patios or raised beds to dry in the sun, before being hulled at the dry-mill and then exported.

Tibebu also grows false banana which is a staple in the local diet, and runner beans which help to fix nitrogen in the soil.

Tibebu studied theology before growing coffee and in addition to his role as a coffee farmer, Tibebu remains an active evangelical preacher and a pillar of the local community. His wife, whom he describes as the backbone of the farm, contributes to their success by running a small fashion boutique that supports their efforts.

Tibebu Roba’s approach to coffee production reflects his commitment on cultivating coffee that is free from the use of synthetic chemicals. Although he has taken the desion to no longer be certified as organic, his commitment to responsible farming practices remains unwavering. Tibebu nourishes the coffee plants with self-made compost and embrace sustainable farming methods in all steps.

A testament to Tibebu’s commitment to excellence when it comes to producing the finest Ethiopian Naturals is his win in the 2019 Ethiopian Cup competition, arranged by the fine exporter Trabocca, where his remarkable coffee got a 91-scoring and earned him USD 33.500 worth of premiums. Moreover, his influence extends beyond his own farm as he encourages other smallholders to promote excellence and innovation throughout the region.