Day 4. Tanzania - Ngila Estate Kent AB

On the edge of Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Ngila Estate sits between cloud forest, winding rivers, and the wildlife corridors of northern Arusha. At 1,500–1,600 metres above sea level, cool mountain air and fertile volcanic soils provide the perfect conditions for bright, structured coffees with remarkable clarity and depth.

This washed Kent AB lot, harvested in July and August 2024, reflects Ngila’s meticulous approach. Cherries are hand-picked and carefully sorted before being pulped and washed on-site. After a 15-hour fermentation, the coffee is sun-dried on raised beds for two weeks, then hulled and prepared for export at Rafiki Mill in Moshi. The result is a clean, vibrant cup that captures both place and craft.

Ngila’s story stretches back to the early 1900s, when the first Arabica trees were planted here. Revived in the 1990s by Rudolf Meyer, the estate is now run by his wife, Vera Stücker, alongside a skilled local team. Today, Ngila spans around 100 hectares and nurtures 150,000 Arabica trees, including Kent, SL28, Pacamara, Geisha, and Typica. Specialty lots from the Glenmalure section frequently score above 84.5, cementing the estate’s reputation as one of Tanzania’s leading producers.

Sustainability is woven into every aspect of farm life. Ngila is Rainforest Alliance certified, plants more than 5,000 indigenous trees each year, and uses biochar to restore soil health. Its water-efficient washing station reduces waste, and all drying is carried out naturally using sun and air rather than mechanical dryers. Protecting wildlife migration routes is central to the estate’s mission, ensuring harmony between farming and the surrounding ecosystem.

Equally important is Ngila’s role in the community. The estate is a major local employer, offering long-term staff fair wages, healthcare, and education. Through close collaboration with roasters, Ngila also supports nearby schools by funding projects such as solar panels, water tanks, and infrastructure improvements — helping to build a stronger future for the region.

This coffee is more than a cup, it’s the taste of Tanzania’s highlands, shaped by history, nature, and a commitment to sustainable progress.

Every cup tells a story. Our coffees are sourced from passionate farmers around the world, roasted with care in Buckinghamshire, and delivered fresh to your home. Treat yourself to something special, or share the gift of great coffee