The synergy that exists in and around high quality coffee production is not a new development, but it is one that continues to inspire. Before its recent transformation, the area around Shakiso town was home to only a small number of coffee farmers. Due to the dense forests and logistical challenges of delivering coffee to the nearest mills, coffee farming wasn’t a practical endeavor for most. Thanks to the vision and work of Testi Coffee, there are now two mills operating in the region - within five kilometers of each other. Because Testi was invested in high quality specialty coffee, farmers started to see higher income from their sales, which in turn encouraged more producers to move to the area. Testi believes in investing in the communities they work in, and, in addition to the higher incomes being earned, the washing stations have also brought a school to the community and there are plans for bringing better healthcare options to the community as well.