I primi
Yemen
In 2020, the Lavazza Foundation launched its first intervention in Yemen, one of the oldest coffee-producing countries in the world, today affected by a prolonged conflict and a severe humanitarian crisis. In this fragile context, coffee continues to represent a vital source of income for many families, despite significant production, infrastructure, and climate-related challenges.
The “Firsts” project introduces several key innovations for the development of the coffee sector in the country:
– the first national census of coffee producers;
– the establishment of the largest nursery in the country (150,000 plants/year);
– the construction of the first water reservoir (900 m³) supporting 214 producers;
– the first coffee processing centre (2,500 m²), benefiting 1,500 producers.
Through this intervention, the Foundation contributes to strengthening the resilience of the Yemeni coffee value chain and supporting local communities in a highly fragile context.
GEOGRAPHIC AREA
Provinces of Ibb, Dhamar and Raymah
PERIOD
PEOPLE INVOLVED
AIM
To support the development of a sustainable and resilient agricultural model in Yemen by strengthening the productive capacity of small coffee farmers through improved water resource management, agricultural innovation, and the development of local skills, with a specific focus on women’s inclusion.
INSIGHT OF THE PROJECT
PARTNER
Results achieved
Results achieved
pilot water reservoir (900 m³) built using geomembrane technology
farmers directly served by the first water infrastructure system
producers involved
nursery established with a production capacity of 150,000 plants per year
water reservoir with a capacity of 900 m³
Cost reduction: water infrastructure up to 1/6 of traditional methods
Introduction of terracing systems for rainwater management
Construction of non-invasive dams and water harvesting systems for domestic and agricultural use
coffee processing centre built serving 1,500 producers
project advisory committee composed of 50% women
producers trained on agricultural practices to improve productivity and quality
model farm established to promote the dissemination of sustainable agricultural practices
model farm established for varietal testing and agricultural practices
national nursery with a production capacity of 150,000 coffee plants
processing centers: Otmah (pre-processing) and Sana’a (advanced processing, capacity 150 tons/year, 2,500 sqm)
Introduction of agroforestry systems and artificial shading solutions
Use of DNA-based genetic verification technologies for coffee plants
