The global coffee industry is facing a significant threat due to the impact of the climate crisis on coffee crops. In the midst of this challenge, there is a glimmer of hope in the form of a rare coffee bean that could potentially transform the future of coffee production.

In the heart of western South Sudan, Catherine Bashiama tends to her coffee tree, nurturing it with care and hope. This tree, a unique excelsa coffee species, holds the promise of prosperity for Bashiama and her family, offering a lifeline out of poverty. The discovery of excelsa coffee over a century ago in South Sudan has now garnered attention as a potential solution to the current coffee crisis exacerbated by climate change.

With traditional coffee-producing nations struggling to adapt to increasingly unpredictable weather patterns, the prices of coffee have surged to unprecedented levels. Brazil, a key player in the coffee market, anticipates a significant drop in this year’s coffee harvest due to the adverse effects of climate change. The urgency to find sustainable solutions is evident as coffee farmers worldwide grapple with the harsh realities of a changing climate.

Experts, including Aaron Davis from the Royal Botanic Gardens in London, emphasize the critical role excelsa coffee could play in mitigating the challenges posed by climate change. Originating from South Sudan and a few other African countries, excelsa coffee boasts unique characteristics that enable it to thrive in extreme conditions such as drought and heat. Its resilience to common coffee pests and diseases further enhances its appeal as a potential game-changer in the coffee industry.

Despite its exceptional qualities, excelsa coffee remains a niche player, accounting for less than 1% of the global coffee market. To make a substantial impact and address the market gap created by climate change, experts stress the need for scaling up production of excelsa coffee on a much larger scale.

In South Sudan, a country historically not recognized for its coffee production, the revival of the coffee industry presents a beacon of hope for economic growth. Companies like Equatoria Teak are at the forefront of efforts to promote excelsa coffee cultivation, providing training and resources to local farmers to increase production. The initial success of these initiatives is evident as farmers witness their excelsa trees bearing fruit for the first time, paving the way for potential exports to European markets.

However, the road to establishing a thriving coffee industry in South Sudan is fraught with challenges. The lack of infrastructure, ongoing insecurity, and high transportation costs pose significant obstacles to the growth of the coffee sector. Despite the prevailing difficulties, local farmers like Bashiama and John view excelsa coffee as a pathway to a more prosperous future, offering them opportunities for financial independence and stability.

As South Sudan navigates its post-conflict landscape and strives for economic development, the cultivation of excelsa coffee symbolizes resilience, innovation, and the potential for sustainable growth in the face of adversity. The journey towards establishing a vibrant coffee industry in South Sudan underscores the transformative power of agriculture in fostering economic empowerment and community resilience.