By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian
Tanzania will host the 21st African Fine Coffee Conference and Exhibition next year, expected to draw over 2,000 participants. Scheduled for February 26th to 28th, 2025, the event is organized by the African Fine Coffee Association (AFCA) to support the Tanzanian government’s efforts to open up the country. AFCA, a member-based non-profit organization, represents coffee producers, traders, government bodies, and support organizations across 11 member countries.
The conference will bring together coffee professionals from both regional and international arenas, including producers, traders, roasters, and public and private sector officials. Recent government statistics show that coffee production in Tanzania has increased from 50,000 tonnes per year to 82 tonnes per year over the past decade.
Speaking in Dar es Salaam, AFCA Board Chairman Mr. Amir Hamza emphasized the importance of the conference in fostering industry growth and collaboration across Africa. “We are thrilled to return the African Fine Coffee Conference and Exhibition to Tanzania, a nation with significant coffee potential. This event not only showcases the exceptional quality of African coffee but also underscores our commitment to industry growth and collaboration across the continent,” Mr. Hamza stated.
He praised the Tanzanian government’s efforts to improve investment conditions and streamline business operations, noting that these changes facilitated the choice of Tanzania as the host for the conference. “Our president’s support and the government’s efforts to simplify business terms have made it possible for us to hold the meeting here,” Mr. Hamza added.
The conference aims to be a cornerstone of the continent’s coffee industry, promoting growth, sustainability, and excellence. “We are dedicated to supporting our farmers through training, market access, and advocacy for Africa’s coffee sector,” Mr. Hamza affirmed.
Tanzania Coffee Board (TCB) Director General Mr. Primus Kimaryo, representing the Ministry of Agriculture, highlighted the conference’s role beyond just a meeting of minds. “This event is a platform for farmers, exporters, traders, and enthusiasts to exchange ideas, explore opportunities, and forge partnerships that will shape the future of our industry,” Mr. Kimaryo explained.
Mr. Kimaryo also noted Tanzania’s strategic goal to increase coffee production to 300,000 tonnes per year within the next five years. He emphasized that the conference offers a unique opportunity for showcasing Tanzanian coffee, including both Robusta and Arabica varieties, and enhancing the country’s economy by strengthening the coffee sector and boosting tourism.
“Tanzania is known for its stunning landscapes and warm hospitality, as well as for producing some of the finest coffee globally. This event will help us demonstrate our coffee industry’s potential and drive forward our strategic goals,” Mr. Kimaryo concluded.
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