Most of Zambia’s coffee is grown in the mountains of the Northern Province. Estate coffee is prominent, since these bigger operations have the resources to develop and process their coffee crops efficiently, and provide employment. The smallholder sector comprises approximately 60% of the population, but production is low as these smaller farmers struggle to obtain fertilizer, equipment, and the necessary water for processing their coffees.
The Northern Province is replete with natural wonders. It’s a land of crocodiles, hippos, and a multitude of birds. Lions. Elephants. Wildlife preserves exist, but the battle with poachers is ongoing, as villagers who have limited means of income often lend help and labor to the poachers as an alternative to poverty. As the coffee industry takes firm root here, it is giving people a sustainable, ethical way to survive.