Honduras: Maricela Benitez

Ana Maricela Benítez García is a dedicated coffee producer who lives alone and is a single mother to three children: one son and two daughters. She began her journey in coffee cultivation in 2021, on a small one-hectare plot where she grows the Typica variety. As the first generation in her family to become a coffee farmer, Ana initiated this endeavour independently, motivated by the economic dependence of her community on coffee production. Her goal is not only to achieve a good yield from her plot but also to secure fair prices for her coffee. Ana's passion for growing coffee stems from her necessity to provide for her family. The income she earns from her coffee is essential for their support. However, she faces significant challenges, including the impacts of climate change, an increase in pests and diseases, excessive rainfall, low yields, high input costs, and a shortage of labour. Despite these difficulties, Ana has celebrated remarkable achievements as a coffee farmer. Her first sale in 2024 allowed her to invest in her family and expand her land. This income is vital for her family’s support. Ana aspires to sell her coffee as specialty coffee and was thrilled to have the opportunity to export her coffee abroad this year. This milestone has motivated her to continue working hard, especially since she previously sold her coffee cherries to local middlemen for very low prices.

In a message to roasters that bought her coffee abroad, Ana expresses her gratitude for their support: “I just want to thank you for buying my coffee. As a single mother of three, the income I receive helps me support my family. I hope to meet you someday and that you can visit my farm.”