Coffee regions represented in this auction

Tucked away in the southern part of Ethiopia’s Oromia region lies Guji zone, home to the Oromo people. The Oromo are the largest ethnic group in Ethiopia and have a rich cultural history that shapes their lives and communities. Religion in Guji is diverse, with many practicing Islam or Christianity, while traditional beliefs that honor nature and ancestral spirits are still a big part of life here. These beliefs influence everything from cultural rituals to the way the Oromo celebrate.

Festivals in Guji often center around the agricultural cycle, especially coffee harvesting. Coffee is more than just a crop; it is a way of life. With its high elevation, ranging from 1,800 to 2,500 meters above sea level (masl), Guji’s mountainous terrain and volcanic soil make it the perfect place for growing some of the world’s finest coffees. Many families in the area also rely on subsistence farming, cultivating crops such as maize, beans, and other crops for local use. In addition to agriculture, gold and mineral mining are key contributors to the local economy.

Coffee has been woven into the fabric of Guji for generations, gaining even more prominence during the Italian occupation in the late 1930s and 1940s, when coffee began to be commercialized. Though colonial powers sought to exploit this valuable resource, traditional methods of coffee cultivation persisted. By the late 20th century, the establishment of cooperatives helped local farmers regain control over their coffee production. This shift allowed them to improve both their livelihoods and the reputation of Guji coffee in international markets.

Today, there is a strong focus on sustainable and organic practices in coffee production, as global consumers seek ethically sourced products. Guji coffee, now recognized as distinct from Sidama and Yirgacheffe, has earned its place on the world stage. 

Faysel has been part of this journey since 2014, collaborating closely with farmers in Guji to produce some of the region’s best coffee. Faysel's washing station ensures quality at every step, from picking the red cherries, to the timely depulping of cherries, to thorough processing, washing, natural (sun-dried), honey, anaerobic, and careful drying. But Faysel continually believes in more than just producing great coffee—he is committed to ethically sourcing and supporting the farmers’ families, especially through education initiatives. Faysel invites you to explore the world of Guji coffee with his team, one cup at a time!