Bona Zuria / Ethiopia

Bona Zuria Washing Station is located at 1,900–2,000 meters in the Bensa district of Sidamo. Owned by Tracon Trading since 2008, the facility was built and renovated with a focus on producing high-quality coffee. Led by station manager Mr. Kebede, a team of 15 employees processes coffee using washed, natural, honey, and anaerobic methods while constantly experimenting for quality improvement. Young trees, high yields, and the unique microclimate of Sidamo contribute to the distinct flavor profile of this station.

During the harvest, cherries are collected from both the station’s own farm and surrounding smallholder farmers. After delivery, cherries are hand-sorted, floaters are removed, and the coffee is pulped to wet parchment. The beans then undergo fermentation and washing before being dried on African beds. While traditional processing is followed, strict water quality control is enforced, with a system that stores and uses only clean water. Fermentation times, moisture levels, and water activity are carefully monitored to consistently achieve high-quality coffee.

Surrounded by gentle hills, the station benefits from cool mountain winds, allowing washed coffees to dry over approximately two weeks. Both shaded and open African drying beds are used, with mats and covers adjusted according to sunlight and temperature. This slow and attentive drying process helps ensure the best cup quality.

Tracon Trading is one of Ethiopia’s leading coffee exporters, focusing on the country’s most important agricultural product and source of foreign exchange. The company exports specialty coffee to Europe, the United States, Asia, and the Middle East, and operates six washing stations domestically. Its environmentally conscious facilities in Yirgacheffe and Limu are designed for quality improvement and certification, driving sustainable high-quality coffee production. Tracon aims to lead Ethiopia’s coffee industry by producing top-quality coffees recognized internationally, including awards at the recent Ethiopia Cup of Excellence competitions.