The Qima Foundation, a non-profit linked to social enterprise Qima Coffee, is spearheading a historic effort to gain UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage status for Yemeni coffee.
The official nomination was submitted by Dr. Mohammed Jumeh, Yemen’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO. The application was developed in partnership with the Qima Foundation, Yemen’s Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation.
“This is a historic moment for Yemen and for the coffee world,” said Faris Sheibani, Founder and Trustee of Qima Foundation. “For centuries, Yemeni coffee has been a pillar of global coffee culture. This nomination is a powerful recognition of the farmers and communities who have preserved this legacy.”
The submission outlines the deep cultural roots of Yemeni coffee, highlighting its traditional farming practices, indigenous knowledge, and centuries-old heritage. It also reflects years of research carried out by Qima Foundation.
Dr. Jumeh called the nomination “a milestone on the path toward international recognition of Yemeni coffee as both a cultural and economic symbol.” He noted that Yemen’s historic ports—especially Mocha—once served as key gateways for coffee to spread worldwide.
This marks the first time Yemeni coffee has been proposed for UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list. As of December 2024, the list includes 788 cultural practices from 150 countries.
Related topics:
- Starbucks Workers Strike Over New Dress Code Policy
- Plans for Coffee Shop at Mount Sequoyah Center Progressing with New RFP
- White Rhino Coffee Introduces Summer Menu and Permanent Energy Drink Line