Ethiopia, Worka

The Worka washing station is located in the Gedeo zone of Yirgaceffe, Ethiopia. Coffee is typically grown on small garden-size plots and is used to supplement a family’s income in addition to being grown for personal use. The Worka highlands are characterized by fertile red-brown soils, high elevation, and a semi-forest agroforestry system. Coffee trees grow beneath indigenous shade trees, creating a stable microclimate that supports slow, even ripening. Ripe cherries are delivered daily to the Worka washing station, where they are hand-sorted and floated to remove defects. After pulping, the coffee undergoes wet fermentation for 24–48 hours using clean spring water to break down mucilage. The coffee is dried on raised African beds for approximately 10–14 days, with constant turning and protection from midday sun and overnight moisture.