The Gedeo zone is a narrow section of Ethiopia’s southern highland plateau, known for its skilled farmers, acclaimed terroir, and intense competition for coffee cherries. This area is often referred to as “Yirgacheffe,” named after its most famous central district. However, Gedeb stands out as a distinct terroir, with its own rich history and community, deserving of recognition in its own right. The coffees from this district, which is closer to the Guji zone than the rest of Gedeo, often exhibit the most vibrant flavor profiles found in Ethiopia. Natural coffees tend to possess perfume-like qualities, while fully washed varieties are typically crystal clear and reminiscent of fruit candy in their structure.
Worka Cooperative was established in 2006, just a few years after the Yirgacheffe Coffee Farmers' Cooperative Union (YCFCU) was founded. The cooperative started with 210 member farmers; today, it boasts over 1,400 farmers cultivating coffee across 2,500 hectares. On average, each farmer manages just under 2 hectares, although some farms can be as large as 10 hectares or more.
