Our Projects
Producer-led trials backed by Farmack Network and Ryu, combining on-farm expertise, research rigor, and direct trade to advance Kenyan smallholder agriculture.
Projects driving real farm-level impact
Two flagship programs combining research rigor, producer partnerships, and climate-smart execution.
Micro-Climate Anaerobic Coffee Fermentation Trials
Supported by Ryu & Farmack Network
A producer-led research and processing pilot co-executed by Setek Highlands and Nifty Coffee Farm, with technical and market support from Ryu and Farmack Network. The trial tests how high-altitude cold vs. lower-altitude warm micro-climates shape anaerobic fermentation profiles in Kenya.
- Strategic Objective
Standardize oxygen-purged fermentation protocols tailored to distinct micro-climatic zones to unlock complex flavor profiles and command premium prices in international specialty markets.
- Direct 4-Way Partnership Model
A close alliance connecting Ryu (international specialty partner), Farmack Network (agtech & execution partner), and local producers directly on-farm to share technical expertise, ferment logging data, and market value.
- Comparative Research Focus
Analyzing thermal fermentation rates, Brix breakdown, and cup acidity profiles between cold high-altitude conditions versus warmer lower-altitude environments.
Subsidized Beekeeping & Pollinator Integration
Supported by Farmack Network
Integrating managed honeybee populations into coffee farms to enhance natural cross-pollination, increase cherry fruit set, and generate secondary income via raw honey.
- Strategic Objective
Boost farm yields and diversify smallholder income with subsidized hives and equipment across Kenya.
- Impact
Managed Apis mellifera colonies improve bloom fertilization efficiency, leading to higher cherry density and uniform ripening.
- Program Offerings
Subsidized Langstroth & Kenya Top Bar (KTB) hives, protective suits, and practical training in apiary management and honey harvesting.
Why pollinators matter for coffee
- Improved cherry set and uniformity across the farm.
- Secondary honey income between harvest cycles.
- Reduced reliance on external pollination inputs.
Producer partners at the core
The fermentation trial is designed, logged, and executed on-farm by the producers themselves. Ryu and Farmack Network provide protocols, market access, and agronomic support.
Setek Highlands Coffee Farm
Philip
- Climate: High Altitude & Cold Temperatures
- Location: Nandi Hills
On-farm focus: Slow, extended-tank anaerobic mucilage fermentation leveraging low ambient temperatures for prolonged, controlled acidity development.
Nifty Coffee Farm
Ronald
- Climate: Lower Altitude & Warmer Temperatures
- Location: Kipsitet, Kericho County
On-farm focus: Accelerated anaerobic fermentation trials, monitoring strict temperature caps to prevent over-fermentation in warmer conditions.
The 4-Way Direct Partnership Framework
A transparent, four-way collaboration where producers are equal partners — sharing value, data, and expertise with Farmack Network and Ryu at every step.
Market alignment, processing protocols, and premium buyer access.
On-ground execution, fermentation logging, and agronomic support.
High-altitude cold climate execution & extended fermentation logging.
Warmer climate execution & accelerated anaerobic fermentation logging.
Project Comparison
Side-by-side view of our two active programs and how they complement each other.
| Metric / Focus | Anaerobic Processing Trials | Subsidized Beekeeping |
|---|---|---|
| Key Supporting Partners | Ryu & Farmack Network | Farmack Network |
| Producer Alliance | Philip (Nandi Hills) & Ronald (Kipsitet) | Smallholder coffee farmers nationwide |
| Climate Variables | Cold high-altitude (Setek) vs. Warmer lower-altitude (Nifty) | Countrywide coffee agro-ecological zones |
| Primary Goal | Evaluate climate impact on ferments & elevate cup quality | Boost farm yields & diversify income |
| Current Stage | Active on-farm pilot phase | Active roll-out & hive distribution |
Partner With Us
Are you a producer looking to join our beekeeping initiative, or an international coffee brand interested in our specialty trial micro-lots?