Brooke supports horses in Nicaraguan coffee production chain
Charlotte Kitchen explains the process behind coffee production in Nicaragua and how Brooke supports equids working within the chain.
The best coffee ‘cherries’ are picked by hand from the coffee plantation or shrubs.
Coffee is an important part of people’s lives. It provides people with energy and allows them to get through their busy working days, but where does their coffee come from?
The production of coffee is vast, which requires harvesting, processing milling and packaging. Recently, Brooke went out to Nicaragua to see how people rely on horses to support their coffee production. Jose and his son, Lester, are one of the local farmers and grow coffee, beans and corn with help from their horse, El Rojito.
Brooke has helped Jose to learn more about looking after his horse and what changes he can do to make El Rojito more comfortable and support his welfare. This allows him to continue helping with the plantation, despite long tiring days, and help Jose to provide for his family.
Jose has learnt from Brooke to understand his horse, listen when El Rojito is hungry on their journeys and understand the importance of mutual trust during their work. Quick turnaround of this valuable crop is vital, which ensures coffee’s sweet and smooth taste is delivered.
Horses play a huge factor in coffee production, without them it would take much longer and farmers could miss out on profit. The cherries are bagged up and beans transported by the horse back to distributors for roasting and sales. Without their help, it wouldn’t be possible for farmers in remote areas to continue this work.
Jose’s son, Lester, enjoys caring for his horses and prefers walking to school to ensure they aren’t hungry or suffering. This is hugely positive as it shows Lester knows how to take care of his horses and the right way to treat them at just 12-years-old. He has clearly learnt from his family thanks to Brooke’s education and support.
Photo credits go to Jose Collado.