Our Story
A Legacy of Excellence Since 1982
Nestled in the volcanic red soils of the Nyambene Hills, on the eastern slopes of Mount Kenya, Athimba Coffee is more than a business, it’s a living heritage. What began as a family-owned venture in 1982 by the late Michael N. Raphael has grown into an internationally recognized name in sustainable specialty coffee. The unique terroir; rich volcanic soils, moderate altitudes, tropical rains, and year-round sunshine offers ideal conditions for cultivating dense, flavorful, complex Arabica beans, producing over 10,000 kilograms per acre annually.
We’ve preserved our traditional hand-picking methods while integrating modern post-harvest practices to ensure each bean represents the best of both worlds: authentic African flavor and global standards of quality. Notably, our coffee processing is powered by local women, whose skills, dedication, and leadership form the backbone of our operations, affirming our commitment to women’s empowerment and community inclusion.
Our name, Athimba, is inspired by ancestral stories of resilience, endurance, and excellence passed through generations. Today, we grow with the same values that shaped our beginnings, guided by the four pillars of Athimba: Quality, Sustainability, Heritage, and Empowerment.
"We empower women, honor heritage, and deliver authentic farm-direct quality to roasters and importers around the world."
