The Chelchele Farm and its Wetmill are managed by Metad, approximately 400 km south of Addis Ababa, in the administrative region of Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples. The Farm was established in 2013, covering an area of 30 hectares, right in the heart of the Yirgacheffe appellation, internationally renowned for the quality of its coffees. The Wetmill is located in the Gedeb zone and features approximately 200 African drying beds dedicated to coffee processing.
Metad collaborates with local smallholder farmers who supply their finest coffee cherries. Currently, over 2000 farmers from the Gedeb surroundings sell all or part of their harvests to Metad.
At the Chelchele Wetmill, coffees are primarily processed using the washed method. After depulping, the coffees ferment for approximately 48 hours before being washed and then dried on African drying beds for about ten days. The Wetmill employs around 200 people, divided into day and night shifts, to ensure the smooth execution of the various coffee processing stages.
Furthermore, Belco discovered a company involved in development projects that extend beyond the scope of the Farm itself, and this approach fostered a desire to collaborate with them. Aware of the natural heritage of the Gedeo zone, Metad promotes environmentally friendlier agricultural practices. Additionally, Metad funds road construction and a primary school for 800 students from the Wetmill's surrounding area, fully ensuring its operation.
