Agriculture Projects | Development projects | PROJECT7 | PROJECTS

The anti-qat project

Published : June 5, 2020

Qat cultivation has become widespread throughout Yemen, and its consumption represents both an economic trap and social phenomenon. Many Yemenis are spending a large portion of their income to buy qat leaves that, contains classified narcotic substance, instead of responding to their family’s needs. 

In responses to this issue, some inhabitants of the Haraz villages, located southwest of Sana’a, decided to uproot these trees and grow other types of crops that are more useful and profitable to the community.

Therefore, we aims to continue this initiative and replace qat with coffee trees currently growing in our nurseries. The objective is to revive the agricultural sector and the coffee production in Yemen.

The Haraz region is known for its fertility, its agricultural heritage and the quality of the coffee produced on its lands. About 75% of that land is suitable for growing this high-quality product that can benefit the whole country. Moreover, many private or state-owned lands are now uncultivated and abandoned due to the migration of the  population to Sana’a. 

This project is an opportunity to reforest and maintain these precious lands.

This special celebration was more than just raising a cup; it was a journey of discovery, tracing the story that begins with a tiny bean nurtured in fertile mountain soil and ends with a cup that carries joy, inspiration, and community.

 

Under the theme “The Magical Journey… From Bean to Cup,” the event highlighted coffee as a global symbol of unity — a bridge connecting cultures, stories, and people across continents.

 

Each coffee bean represents dedication, craftsmanship, and passion — from the farmer’s care to the barista’s artistry.

 

One of the event’s most memorable moments was the engaging presence of barista and coffee expert Ammar Al-Ahlasi, who filled the room with enthusiasm and the irresistible aroma of freshly brewed coffee.

 

He came not just to serve coffee, but to share knowledge and unveil the secrets behind this enchanting beverage.

 

Ammar emphasized that brewing coffee is both an art and a ritual — from choosing the right grind size to controlling the water temperature and mastering the pouring technique. Every detail matters.

 

Each drop of water that touches the ground extracts not just flavor, but also a story, a feeling, and a sense of connection — creating a cup that nourishes the soul as much as the senses.

 

In closing, the Y30closing, the Y30 Association, in collaboration with the Y30 Institute, affirmed that this event was more than just a celebration — it was a heartfelt tribute to the timeless values that coffee embodies: dedication, creativity, and human connection.

 

Every cup tells a journey — from the earth to the heart — reminding us that coffee is not merely a beverage, but a way of life.