OSSREA Advances Vermicomposting and Agroforestry Efforts in Kaffa Through Intensive Field Mission

The Organisation for Social Science Research in Eastern and Southern Africa (OSSREA), has successfully completed a week-long field mission in Bita Woreda, Kaffa Zone, aimed at accelerating climate-smart agriculture and strengthening the capacities of women coffee farmers under the project “Empowering Ethiopian Coffee: A South-South Approach to Climate Finance and Carbon Credits.”

From 16–22 November 2025, the OSSREA team carried out a series of coordinated activities in Sheda Kebele, beginning with technical consultations at the Bonga Agricultural Research Center (BARC) to secure and transport vermicompost worms essential for household-level organic fertilizer production. Over two consecutive days, the team transported and distributed a total of 86 kg of worms to 43 women farmers and provided hands-on, practical training on vermicompost preparation, box management, and worm inoculation. This direct support significantly expands the adoption of vermicomposting—a core component of the project’s climate-resilient coffee production strategy.

In addition to the farmer trainings, OSSREA engaged the six women peer influencers who play a vital role in mobilizing and mentoring fellow farmers. The influencers participated in a specialized capacity-building session aimed at deepening their technical expertise in vermicomposting so that they can provide ongoing guidance within their communities. Discussions also focused on collective progress at the farm level, women’s participation, and ways to further strengthen peer-to-peer learning.

The mission further assessed the performance of coffee, banana, and shade-tree seedlings planted earlier in the year. Field observations revealed that seedlings planted at the start of the rainy season exhibited stronger growth compared to those planted later, providing valuable insights for planning the next planting cycle. The team also explored multiple locations for establishing a large community nursery intended to produce 300,000 seedlings in 2026. Following consultations with Bita Woreda agricultural officials, an existing nursery site in Gawite Kebele—well situated near a reliable water source and accessible by road—was identified as the preferred location.

After the OSSREA team’s departure, follow-up community consultations facilitated by local partner Mr. Wondowossen and woreda officials resulted in a preliminary agreement on the use of the Gawite nursery site. Further discussions will ensure that women farmers—the project’s primary beneficiaries—have a central role in the nursery’s establishment and management.

The November mission represents another milestone in OSSREA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen climate-smart coffee production systems, promote women’s economic empowerment, and build the foundations for a community-led carbon credit initiative. Through continued collaboration with AECID, local institutions, and community partners, the project is moving steadily toward its objective of creating sustainable, gender-responsive climate-finance pathways for Ethiopian coffee farmers.