Our long-term goals of developing a mutually beneficial and sustainable business model is dependent on building relationships with farmers in the Mt. Kenya region from where  we source our coffee.

Coffee farming is a mainstay of millions of people worldwide, with majority  found in some of the poorest  third world countries in the world. Inequality (or inconsistencies) in the coffee value-chain is a menace that  has impeded transfer of fair value down the supply chain, leaving most if not all coffee farmers financially burdened even though coffee is the second most traded commodity after oil.

Multinational corporations with economies of scale benefit at the expense of these worker bee coffee farmers by acquiring green beans for a song while making and keeping substantial profit margins from processing.

Paving the way

The solution lies in equitable trading practices which embodies Banele’s core business model. This we intend to achieve by buying green beans directly from farmers in the regions of Mt. Kenya and channeling back a bonus towards educational and wildlife conservation initiatives based on the final sales of finished products. Banele will be the link for these farmers and their communities in capturing higher value associated with processing activities.

Banele and nature conservatism

Besides providing perfect climatic condition and rich volcanic soils for coffee production Mt. Kenya and Mt Kenya national park which is a UNESCO World Heritage site covering 2124 sq. km is home to over 130 species of birds and wide variety of wildlife. By supporting equitable development, Banele is endeavoring to protect this ecosystem which is vital for the long-term viability of coffee farming.

Impoverished farmers are easily disconnected from matters of sustainable agriculture and conservation of wildlife and its habitats. 

Better revenue for our farmers will translate into ability to afford education, health care, food, security and overall improved standards of living and to bridge this knowledge gap. Preserved flora and fauna become a symbol for posterity rather than alternative source of energy and food.

Banele’s sustainability goal is anchored in the premise that " if people benefit from land, wildlife and other natural resources, then they will certainly take care of these resources."

The goal of sustainable agricultural practices and conservation means Mt Kenya coffee farmers will meet their present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

"No one will protect what they don't care about, and no one will care about what they have never experienced". David Attenborough.

To most students, teachers and community members, a Banele sponsored visit to the parks through our educational and wildlife conservation initiatives is all it takes to appreciate and understand how their activities affect their surroundings.