What To Know
- a looming threatIn 2022, a study uncovered that 60% of wild coffee species face extinction due to climate change.
- The impact of climate change on Africa’s coffee industry is profound, with various solutions being discussed to address these challenges.
- A billion-dollar market at riskAfrica plays a pivotal role in the global coffee market, valued at $2.
The coffee industry in Kenya employs over 150,000 people, yet its future is severely threatened by climate change.
climate change: a looming threat
In 2022, a study uncovered that 60% of wild coffee species face extinction due to climate change. Kenyan farmers are grappling with challenging conditions, earning as little as $2.30 per day. The impact of climate change on Africa’s coffee industry is profound, with various solutions being discussed to address these challenges.
a billion-dollar market at risk
Africa plays a pivotal role in the global coffee market, valued at $2.5 billion. Ethiopia leads the charge with exports worth $1.2 billion annually, followed by Uganda at $594.2 million. However, deforestation and diseases threaten this crucial industry.
- The economic backbone for many African countries relies heavily on coffee trade.
- Coffee is often referred to as “black gold” due to its economic importance.
kenyan farmers: facing harsh realities
Michael Hoffman from Cornell University has warned that Africa’s available land for coffee cultivation could halve by 2050. However, the effects are already visible today. Farmers like those cultivating the fruity Kenya AA beans in Komothai face tough conditions not only due to nature but also because of unfavorable trade practices with Europe.
A majority earn just $2.30 daily, highlighting an urgent economic issue compounded by climate challenges.
sensitive plants under pressure
Coffee plants are particularly sensitive to climatic fluctuations. They require abundant rainfall; when inconsistent, production suffers drastically. John Murigi of the Komothai Coffee Society explains that recent years have seen declining yields.
If weakened by weather conditions, these plants become susceptible to coffee berry disease, a fungal infection devastating crops up to 80%. Herbicides offer some defense but pose health risks to locals.
water scarcity: a growing concern
The water-intensive nature of coffee farming poses another challenge in areas where water is scarce. Extended droughts make farmers increasingly reliant on diminishing river levels for survival and production needs.
