ZENSHO ACTION

Zensho 's initiatives through food

Through environmentally conscious coffee production,
Creating a sustainable society [Tanzania]

Creating a sustainable society through environmentally conscious coffee production [Tanzania]

2026.03.11

In November 2025, members of Zensho 's Fair Trade Department visited small-scale producer communities in coffee-producing regions of Tanzania and exchanged opinions with the producers.

In Tanzania, coffee harvests have decreased in recent years due to a combination of factors, including rising production costs caused by climate change and prolonged inflation, as well as a shortage of farmers. The living conditions and social circumstances surrounding producers remain unstable, and rural areas, in particular, face various challenges such as regional disparities in education and healthcare.

In the Kilimanjaro region, producers' communities are working to improve coffee quality and transition to sustainable agriculture. Zensho is collaborating with local partners to train young people in these communities as "field officers" (production technology extension workers), helping to create a system where producers can themselves disseminate technology and manage quality.

Exchange of opinions between fair trade staff and coffee producers

A field officer conducting technology dissemination activities explains that, given Tanzania's climate and long-standing customs, transitioning to sustainable farming methods is by no means easy. It requires a great deal of effort and time, as well as the need for each producer to become proficient in specialized techniques and to continuously practice them. One producer said, "In addition to Zensho continuing to buy our coffee at a fair price, we have also been able to learn quality control techniques. Producing safe coffee is very good for both producers and consumers. The motivation of all producers to produce coffee has increased more than ever."

A female coffee producer speaks of her joy. In addition, in one village, construction of a community clinic has begun using social development costs *. This village lacked adequate medical services, resulting in problems such as pregnant women not being able to receive regular checkups or treatment for infectious diseases such as malaria. As a result, local residents had to travel to hospitals tens of kilometers away to receive proper treatment. When the clinic is completed, it is expected to be available to approximately 6,000 local residents. This initiative is expected to make it easier for local people to access the medical services they need. * social development costs: A portion of the raw material purchase price that is allocated to various life improvement activities needed by local people.

Construction of a local clinic using Zensho 's social development costs.

The activities in this village are just one example of our work in Tanzania. Zensho began promoting environmentally conscious coffee cultivation in Tanzania after receiving concerns from producers about the health effects of pesticides (details here). In addition to promoting sustainable agriculture, we also work in other villages to address diverse local issues and needs, including healthcare, education, and the environment.

Zensho will continue to work with more producers in Tanzania to create environmentally friendly coffee, thereby promoting the creation of a sustainable society tailored to the specific characteristics of each region.

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