Iron Lion, from the Guji Zone in Ethiopia

Michiel Lampers, responsible for sourcing Ethiopian lots at The Coffee Quest, grew up enjoying Reggae music and has a deep interest in sociology and history. The name Iron Lion is inspired by Bob Marley’s song “Iron Lion Zion,” which references Rastafarian beliefs. In the song, Zion symbolises Ethiopia, and the lion represents the Lion of Judah, a symbol on the old Ethiopian flag associated with Haile Selassie. Selassie, considered the Messiah by Rastafarians, fought for independence, progress, and peace, laying the foundation for the end of colonial slavery and the creation of a democratic constitution. This makes Iron Lion a truly rebel coffee!

Ture Waji, founder of Sookoo Coffee, has deep ties to the Guji region of Ethiopia. He started his brand in 2018, building drying stations in Uraga and Shakiso. Sookoo Coffee currently produces only natural coffees but plans to introduce washed coffees in the future. They educate farmers on good agricultural practices and provide pre-harvest loans. Sookoo Coffee has a ‘woman-first’ policy at washing stations, built a school for children, and improved local infrastructure.