Coffee in Zimbabwe is More Than Just a Brew

Let’s take a journey to Zimbabwe—not for the wildlife or the majestic Victoria Falls, but for something a little more aromatic: coffee. Yes, you read that right! Zimbabwe, tucked away in the heart of sub-Saharan Africa, is quietly brewing a coffee story that’s as rich and complex as the flavors in your favorite cup.

The Perfect Place to Grow Coffee

First things first: Zimbabwe is in the “coffee belt,” that sweet spot between 20°N and 30°S where coffee plants thrive. The country’s warm climate, high-altitude hills, and generous rainfall make it a dream for growing arabica beans. If you head east to Manicaland—think towns like Chipinge, Chimanimani, Mutasa, and Mutare—you’ll find beans with a sweet, fruity taste and a scent that fills the air. Some say the aftertaste even has a wine-like zing. This is Zimbabwe’s gourmet coffee at its best.

Beans in a Cup

But Zimbabwe’s relationship with coffee hasn’t always been smooth. The story starts in the mid-1800s, when coffee was introduced during European colonization. There are even tales of explorer David Livingstone being offered coffee beans by local tribes. Still, thanks to British influence, Zimbabwe became more of a tea-drinking nation. 

Just as coffee was starting to catch on, disaster struck in the 1920s—a plague wiped out almost all the coffee plants. For the next 40 years, coffee was more of a memory than a morning ritual.

The Comeback Kid

Fast forward to the 1960s, and coffee made a comeback. With new quality standards and a bit of luck, Zimbabwean beans started turning heads in places like London and New York. By the late 1980s, Zimbabwe was producing up to 16,000 metric tons of coffee a year. Not bad for a country better known for its tea.

An Assortment of Coffee Beans

But then, the winds changed again. Political and economic turmoil, along with natural challenges, hit the industry hard. Coffee production plummeted, and by the early 2000s, Zimbabwe’s coffee exports were just a fraction of what they once were.

Brewing a New Future

Here’s the good news: Zimbabwe’s coffee story isn’t over. Since 2011, there’s been a slow but steady revival. Today, about 300 families and small communities are keeping the tradition alive. The country still has the perfect climate and land for coffee, and with a little support, Zimbabwe could once again be a global coffee contender.

Coffee Culture: Old Habits, New Trends

Traditionally, coffee in Zimbabwe was a drink for the wealthy. Most people preferred to enjoy their hot drinks at home rather than splurge at a café. But times are changing. The trend of hanging out in coffee shops is catching on, especially in cities. A handful of cozy cafés have popped up, offering not just great coffee but also a place to relax, meet friends, or even grab a meal.

So, what’s the real story of coffee in Zimbabwe? It’s a tale of resilience, hope, and the pursuit of flavor. From colonial beginnings and devastating setbacks to a modern-day revival, Zimbabwe’s coffee industry is proof that a good cup of coffee is worth fighting for.

Next time you sip your morning brew, imagine the journey those beans might have taken—from the lush hills of Manicaland to your cup. Who knows? Maybe Zimbabwean coffee will be the next big thing on the global stage.