Catherine Bashiama of South Sudan nurtures a climate-resistant coffee tree, hoping it will uplift her family from poverty. This rare excelsa coffee variety is drawing attention amid a global crisis caused by climate change, which has led to rising coffee prices and significant farming challenges. Locals are optimistic about its potential for economic improvement and education for future generations.
In Nzara County, South Sudan, Catherine Bashiama is nurturing a coffee tree from seedling stage to fruition, eagerly anticipating its first fruits. This mother of twelve, who has never previously cultivated coffee, is optimistic that a rare, climate-resilient coffee variety will enhance her family’s prospects. Bashiama expresses a desire to educate her children, believing they represent the future generation capable of breaking the cycle of poverty.
Excitingly, excelsa coffee, identified over a century ago in South Sudan, is capturing the attention of local farmers while also attracting international interest. This heightened focus comes in response to a global coffee crisis exacerbated by climate change, leading to challenges for established coffee-producing nations. As these nations contend with erratic weather patterns affecting crop reliability, coffee prices have surged to unprecedented levels, prompting urgent responses from both the industry and local farmers seeking solutions to this escalating dilemma.
In summary, the cultivation of excelsa coffee in South Sudan highlights an innovative approach to addressing the challenges posed by climate change on coffee crops. Catherine Bashiama’s story reflects the potential of this climate-resistant coffee species to empower local farmers and promote education for future generations. As the coffee industry grapples with rising prices and diminishing yields, the emergence of this rare bean may provide a vital resource for recovery and sustainability.
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