In Burundi, almost the entire population lives from what they grow, and for more than 700,000 families coffee is an important source of income, as well as being a product that the locals hold dear to their hearts.
Burundi is a landlocked country with few economic resources and a predominantly agricultural economy, in which coffee is vital. With no more than 200,000 bags of coffee produced annually, Burundian coffee currently accounts for little more than 1% of international trade. A percentage that, although very low compared to other producing countries, accounts for up to 65% of Burundian exports. It is therefore a
very important source of income for the national economy and for the more than 700,000 coffee-growing families, who devote part of their land to subsistence farming - wheat, maize, rice, bananas, etc. - in order to supplement the seasonal income from coffee sales.
Coffee production in Burundi is primarily a smallholder activity, with an estimated 30% of households across the country depending on coffee for their livelihoods.
Farms are small, less than one hectare, and the average number of trees per farmer is estimated to be between 50 and 250, a perfect ratio to ensure timely tree care and harvesting of high-quality coffees.
Burundian farms grow predominantly Arabica coffee.
