Coffee Lab Nairobi, a Kenyan coffee roastery, has won the prestigious The Agency for Valorisation of Agricultural Products Contest (AVPA) “Coffees Roasted at Origin” competition in Paris.
- •Coffee Lab won the Médaille Gourmet – Fruity & Acidic Category, Filter Brew, a recognition that affirms both the quality of Kenyan coffee and the potential of value addition at origin.
- •The AVPA targets producers who take responsibility for roasting coffee in their countries of origin.
- •The award was received on behalf of Coffee Lab by Kenya’s Deputy Head of Mission to France, Amb. Jane Lusenaka, highlighting the broader significance for Kenya’s presence in international markets.
“For Coffee Lab, this milestone is not just about excellence in the cup, but about redefining the narrative of Kenyan coffee: keeping more value, skills, and recognition at origin, while showcasing to the world that Kenya can roast and compete at the highest level,” Wanjiru Mari, Founder and CEO of Coffee Lab Nairobi said.
Over 95% of coffee is exported green with roasting, packaging, and branding typically done outside the producing countries, where it can add over 300% to its value. This setup heavily favors roasters and retailers in consuming countries, leading to an imbalance in profits.