Expo Milano: “Ethiopia the Root of Coffee and Much More”
Theme “Ethiopia the Root of Coffee and Much More” The Concept Ethiopia possesses great diversity in its biological resources, including coffee (Coffee Arabica L.) one of Ethiopia’s most notable gifts to the world. A number of sources indicate that the term “Coffee” was derived from Kaffa , a region in the south-western part of the Country. Coffee is the driving force of Ethiopia’s economy, ecology, socio-cultural and spiritual life, and accounts for more than 25% of national GDP. The chosen theme for Ethiopia’s participation at Expo Milano 2015 , “Ethiopia the Root of Coffee and Much More” reflects the importance of this economic and cultural resource. Ethiopia produces a number of coffee types including the Sidama , Yergachefe and Harar varieties. Identified by their distinct characteristic, flavor, aroma and taste, they are commonly used for blending with coffees of other origins. Coffee plays a pivotal role in the Ethiopian culture of hospitality, and the