Taste of Harvest (ToH) is an annual coffee quality competition hosted by the African Fine Coffees Association (AFCA). Designed to spotlight the continent’s best coffees, ToH is held in multiple AFCA member countries, with each nation conducting its own national competition. The winning coffees then advance to the Regional African Taste of Harvest Competition, where Africa’s top-quality lots are further celebrated.
This season marks an important expansion for the program. International Trade Centre (ITC) partnered with AFCA through the EU–EAC MARKUP II Programme to strengthen and scale Taste of Harvest. This includes the integration of online coffee auctions—an initiative that opens direct market access, increases visibility for producers, and connects African coffees to international buyers.
Burundi National Taste of Harvest Competition
In collaboration with the Burundi Coffee Development Office (ODECA), the Burundi National Taste of Harvest Competition was held in Bujumbura from August 25 to September 5, 2025. It brought together producers, processors, and cupping experts to evaluate some of Burundi’s most exceptional coffees. The competition highlighted the country’s unique profiles, shaped by its high-altitude terroir and long-standing coffee traditions.
Uganda National Taste of Harvest Competition – Robusta
Uganda’s National Taste of Harvest Competition that focused on Robusta coffee, took place at the AFCA Coffee Campus in Kampala from September 15 to 22, 2025. As one of the world’s foremost producers of premium Robusta, Uganda showcased remarkable quality improvements and innovative processing methods. The event also reinforced Uganda’s critical role in elevating the global perception of fine Robusta coffees.
Tanzania National Taste of Harvest Competition
The 2025–2026 Tanzania National Taste of Harvest Competition held in October-November 2025 represented a significant milestone for the country’s coffee sector. By profiling the highest-quality Tanzanian coffees, the competition boosted their visibility in regional and global specialty markets. It also underscored Tanzania’s ongoing efforts to refine quality, expand market presence, and elevate its reputation within the global coffee industry.
A Platform for Trade and Growth
Beyond recognizing exceptional coffees, Taste of Harvest serves as a vital platform for building trade relationships. It brings together buyers, exporters, cooperatives, and producers to create new business opportunities and strengthen existing partnerships. Winning coffees are not only honoured at the African Fine Coffees Conference and Exhibition, but they are also promoted at major international trade shows and industry events, giving farmers and exporters an invaluable gateway to premium markets.
Taste of Harvest continues to play a transformative role across Africa, uplifting producers, celebrating excellence, and connecting exceptional coffees with buyers around the world. As the program expands through new partnerships and innovations, its impact across Burundi, Uganda, Tanzania, and the wider region is set to grow even further.
