In the face of the climate crisis impacting coffee crops worldwide, a rare and resilient bean is emerging as a potential solution to sustain the industry. Catherine Bashiama, a farmer in western South Sudan, is cultivating a unique coffee species known as excelsa, which shows promise in withstanding the challenges posed by climate change.

Discovered over a century ago in South Sudan, excelsa coffee has become a beacon of hope for local farmers grappling with the adverse effects of a changing climate. As major coffee-producing nations like Brazil face significant yield reductions due to drier and unpredictable weather patterns, the global coffee market is experiencing soaring prices and a pressing need for innovative solutions.

Experts, including Aaron Davis from the Royal Botanic Gardens in London, highlight the urgency of addressing the impact of climate change on coffee farmers. The resilience of excelsa coffee, native to South Sudan and other African countries, positions it as a viable option for adapting to harsh environmental conditions. Its deep roots, sturdy leaves, and disease resistance make it a valuable asset in the struggle against climate-induced crop failures.

While excelsa currently represents less than 1% of the global coffee market dominated by arabica and robusta varieties, its potential to thrive in extreme conditions offers a ray of hope for the industry’s future. Efforts are underway to scale up excelsa production and bridge the gap created by climate change-induced challenges.

In South Sudan, a country historically not known for its coffee production, excelsa’s resurgence signifies a potential economic lifeline for local communities. Organizations like Equatoria Teak are working with farmers to revive the coffee industry, providing training and resources to enhance production and quality. The sweet and flavorful profile of excelsa coffee, reminiscent of arabica but with unique characteristics, has garnered interest from specialty markets globally.

Despite the promise excelsa holds, challenges persist in fully realizing its potential in South Sudan. Infrastructure limitations, security concerns, and lack of investment pose significant obstacles to the industry’s growth. The ongoing instability in the region, compounded by logistical difficulties in transporting coffee to international markets, underscores the need for sustainable development and long-term stability.

For farmers like Bashiama and Taban John, excelsa coffee offers a pathway out of poverty and a means to secure a better future for their families. The economic independence and resilience that excelsa cultivation promises are vital for communities reliant on agriculture for their livelihoods. However, sustained peace and a supportive environment are essential for the coffee industry to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the country’s economy.

In conclusion, the emergence of excelsa coffee as a climate-resilient solution in the face of the coffee industry’s challenges underscores the importance of innovation and adaptation in safeguarding livelihoods and ensuring sustainability in a changing world.