THE STORY BEHIND GATOMBOYA:
Gatomboya Factory, located in the lush highlands of Nyeri, is managed by the Barichu Farmers Cooperative Society. Over 600 smallholders, each farming on about 0.4 hectares, contribute their meticulously cultivated coffee cherries to the factory. The farmers benefit from rich volcanic soils, fresh river water from the Gatomboya stream, and an annual rainfall of 1,400mm—ideal conditions for producing some of Kenya’s most sought-after coffees.
“Gatomboya” means “swamp” in the Kikuyu language, a nod to the fertile land that supports not only coffee but also traditional crops like arrowroot. This heritage and the cooperative’s dedication to quality ensure coffees that stand out on the global stage.
PROCESSING DETAILS:
The cherries are handpicked at peak ripeness and rigorously sorted to ensure only the best make it through. The coffee undergoes a meticulous process:
• Dry fermentation for 16–24 hours.
• Washing and soaking in fresh river water.
• Slow drying on raised beds over 21 days, preserving flavor integrity.
Kenya’s coffee system is built on transparency and reward for quality. The auction system ensures high returns for exceptional lots, with up to 90% of the sale price going back to farmers. This motivates cooperatives like Barichu to produce standout coffees that continually set the bar for excellence.
EXPERIENCE THE ESSENCE OF KENYA
The Kenya Gatomboya AA offers more than just a cup—it’s a connection to the traditions, landscapes, and people that make Kenyan coffee legendary. Perfect for those who crave a vibrant, flavor-packed brew with unmatched clarity and depth.