Mbeya and Songwe

Mbeya and Songwe are among Tanzania’s most important southern highland coffee-producing regions, known for their favorable climate, fertile soils, and steadily improving quality in both Arabica and Robusta coffee production.

The Mbeya region, located in the Southern Highlands near the borders with Zambia and Malawi, is one of Tanzania’s largest coffee-growing areas. Coffee is mainly cultivated at elevations ranging from 1,300 to over 2,000 meters above sea level, where cool temperatures, high rainfall, and volcanic and alluvial soils create ideal growing conditions. Mbeya is particularly well known for its high-quality Arabica coffee, produced largely by smallholder farmers alongside a number of medium and large estates. The coffee from Mbeya typically exhibits bright yet smooth acidity, medium to full body, and flavor notes of citrus, red berries, caramel, and mild spice. The region’s well-developed processing infrastructure and access to cooperative wet mills contribute to consistent washed coffee profiles.

The Songwe region, which was formerly part of Mbeya before becoming an independent administrative region, shares similar ecological conditions and coffee traditions. Coffee is grown at elevations of approximately 1,200–1,900 meters, with fertile soils and reliable rainfall supporting both Arabica in the highlands and Robusta in lower-lying areas. Songwe’s coffee sector is dominated by smallholder farmers, many of whom are organized into cooperatives and producer groups. Coffees from Songwe are often described as clean and balanced, with moderate acidity, medium body, and flavors of cocoa, dried fruit, and gentle sweetness. In recent years, increased focus on quality improvement, farmer training, and better post-harvest handling has enhanced the region’s reputation in national and export markets.

Together, Mbeya and Songwe play a vital role in Tanzania’s coffee economy, supplying a significant share of the country’s export volume. The regions benefit from cross-border trade links, established transport corridors, and growing investment in sustainable coffee practices. As farmers adopt improved varieties, climate-smart agriculture, and better processing methods, Mbeya and Songwe continue to strengthen their position as key contributors to Tanzania’s diverse and high-quality coffee landscape.