Arabica Coffee Institute

Is one of the most emblematic sites linked to the history of coffee cultivation in Angola’s central plateau. Located in the municipality of Ganda, in the province of Benguela, this site represents not only an agricultural research centre, but also an important testimony to the economic, scientific, and cultural past of the region.
During the colonial period, Ganda stood out as one of the main Arabica coffee-producing areas in Angola, thanks to its cool climate, high altitude, and fertile soils — ideal conditions for cultivating this type of coffee. The experimental station and the institute connected to coffee production were created precisely to study varieties adapted to the Angolan territory, improve agricultural production, and support local producers.

The site gained historical relevance for operating as a centre for agronomic experimentation, seed conservation, and technical training for farmers. Several agricultural experiments related to Arabica coffee were developed in the Ganda region, including community nurseries, recovery of old varieties, and climate adaptation studies.
In addition to its agricultural value, the institute also has enormous tourism and heritage potential. The mountainous environment of Ganda, often covered by mist during the early hours of the day, creates a natural landscape highly appreciated by visitors interested in rural and ecological tourism. The old coffee infrastructures, experimental fields, and memories of the golden age of coffee cultivation make the site a point of interest for those wishing to understand the importance of the “red bean” in the Angolan economy.

Today, the Arabica Coffee Institute of Ganda also symbolizes the effort to revitalize coffee production in Angola. In recent years, different public and private projects have once again encouraged the cultivation of Arabica coffee in the region through the distribution of seedlings, rehabilitation of farms, and technical support for local producers.
Visiting the region offers the opportunity to learn more about the Arabica coffee production process, from nurseries to harvesting, while also providing direct contact with agricultural communities that keep Ganda’s coffee-growing tradition alive.