Cecocafen

CECOCAFEN is a cooperative organisation with more than 2000 small producers affiliated in 11 cooperatives in the Matagalpa region. The region's tropical and humid climate, rich volcanic soil and lush vegetation contribute to the unique taste of an internationally renowned coffee.

The biggest challenge for CECOCAFEN is to work on the reconstruction of their country after years of civil war. The organisation collaborates in the production process (part of its daily work) and facilitates the processes of training, productive and business technical assistance. It also provides support in the processing of coffee and ensures the commercialisation of the product.

CECOCAFEN has put a lot of effort into improving coffee quality. With a mixture of loans, donations and their own funds (generated from Fair Trade), they bought a coffee processing plant, called SolCafé, in May 1999. Here the members have a threshing machine that allows them to process the coffee into green beans, thus being able to control the quality throughout the process and increase their productive activities.

The most recent project CECOCAFEN is working on is the development of ecotourism in their area, which will generate additional income for farming families, and educate visitors about coffee production and Fair Trade. Horseback or walking tours, guided visits to the coffee plantations, various activities with the community, among other proposals, will help to increase awareness and protection of natural resources. The youth of the community are excellent guides, thanks to their knowledge of the local flora and fauna. The women, organised in committees, are learning how to provide accommodation and food for the ecotourists, so that they can offer them the best possible treatment.