Co-founded by Lameck Omariba and Peter Kuria, Solai Coffee is more than just another coffee shop in Minneapolis; it is a social enterprise with a mission to empower small-scale Kenyan farmers through the transformative power of coffee. Omariba's personal journey from a small village in Kisii County, Kenya, where he was intimately familiar with the hardships of coffee farming, inspired the creation of Solai Coffee. Witnessing the stark disparity between the price of coffee in the US and the modest income of Kenyan farmers ignited his passion to make a difference. Solai Coffee, which launched three years ago, focuses on supporting female-operated farms by providing land, credit, and essential information to enhance yields and foster socioeconomic empowerment. Despite launching during the COVID-19 pandemic and facing logistical challenges, Omariba's resilience and commitment have driven Solai Coffee's growth. The enterprise not only serves exceptional coffee but also educates its patrons about sustainable farming practices and fair trade, connecting them directly with the farmers' stories. Solai Coffee hosted an event on June 8th, where attendees enjoyed various brews and engaged in discussions about the importance of supporting local businesses that prioritize social good over profit.
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