Musa Abalulesa
- First time cooperation: 2025
- Cooperation model: Indirect Trade
OVERVIEW
At his 43.8-hectare coffee farm in Goma District, Oma Funtule Kebele, Musa Abalulesa has built an impressive legacy. Starting with just 2 hectares inherited from his father—who once owned over 80 hectares—Musa has grown to become one of the region’s most prominent coffee producers. Situated at 2,100 meters above sea level, the farm specializes in varieties 74110 and 74165, while also serving as a collection center for 21 local smallholder farmers.
» Information about Musa Abalulesa
DEVELOPMENT JOURNEY
2006 marked a turning point when Musa was selected to represent Goma’s coffee farmers and won a government program, competing against 500 participants from 4 woredas (districts). His prizes—a trip to the African Fine Coffees Association (AFCA) conference in Uganda, 2,000 birr in cash, and a hand pulper—enabled him to expand his farm to 44 hectares. However, the establishment of this region’s Commodity Exchange (ECX) in 2008 forced him to sell locally at commercial rates. By 2016, when direct export regulations changed, Musa seized the opportunity and became a trusted representative of the Bashasha farmers’ group.
CULTIVATION AND PROCESSING
Musa employs traditional organic farming methods, partly due to limited access to agricultural inputs. The farm diversifies its income through avocado cultivation and beekeeping. Coffee cherries are selectively hand-picked and sun-dried on raised beds for 10-15 days before warehouse storage. With improved income from the 2018/2019 harvest, Musa has invested in farm renovation, establishing his own nursery, building additional covered drying beds, and expanding storage facilities.
WHY WE CHOSE MUSA ABALULESA
Musa Abalulesa exemplifies perseverance and innovation in specialty coffee. From navigating ECX challenges to pioneering direct exports, his success has inspired many local farmers. His commitment to continuous infrastructure and production improvements, combined with his active leadership in the Bashasha farming community, makes him an ideal partner for our sustainable development vision.
