Bengkulu, Indonesia – 17 August 2025. Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day in Kepahiang carried more than one celebration. After the flag ceremony, the community turned its focus to coffee fields, where the Robusta Coffee Farm Competition 2025 recognized farmer achievements and encouraged better cultivation practices across the district.

The competition, jointly organized by the Kepahiang District Government with support from KAPPI Global and local partners, gave visibility to smallholders who form the backbone of Kepahiang robusta coffee.

Farmers in focus

Ten finalists stood out for their efforts in improving cultivation. Sopian emerged as the champion with a score of 80.25, followed by Ujang Hartono (76.75) and Pebi Epransah (76.50). Other finalists included Ujang S, Jeri, Sinar Jaya, Feri Yadi, Ari Suherianto, Zainudin, and Saiful Amri.

Each of the top ten received cash prizes—from IDR 4.5 million for the winner to IDR 1 million for the appreciation category—along with farming equipment. Practical sprayer tanks were contributed by KAPPI Global, ensuring farmers gained tools directly useful for their daily work, while other local partners provided grass cutters.

For many farmers, the recognition meant more than the prizes. As one participant reflected, “This competition reminds us that even small improvements on our farms can make a real difference for the future.”

Broad participation across Kepahiang

The competition attracted 64 farmers from eight sub-districts, showing how deeply robusta cultivation shapes local life. From that pool, 25 farmers reached the Top 25, and 10 advanced to the final stage. The finalists represented a mix of areas, underscoring that progress in robusta is a district-wide movement rather than concentrated in just one place.

Why it matters for robusta farmers

Kepahiang is one of Bengkulu’s strongest contributors to Indonesia’s robusta production, with beans recognized for their chocolate notes and heavy body. The district also holds a Geographical Indication (GI) status, positioning its robusta as a product of unique origin and quality.

Yet as noted in the judges’ evaluation, productivity and quality remain below potential. Many farmers still face limitations in access to training and extension visits, and post-harvest handling often varies widely. The competition was designed not only to celebrate achievements but also to highlight these challenges and encourage solutions that strengthen farmer empowerment.

Momentum beyond the event

While prizes offered immediate rewards, the real value lies in what comes next. In September 2025, KAPPI Global will facilitate training sessions for farmers and agricultural extension officers in Kepahiang, focused on practical improvements in robusta cultivation and sustainable coffee practices. By connecting recognition with education, the competition becomes part of a longer journey toward higher yields, better quality, and stronger livelihoods.

Judges also observed that farmers applying improved clones, better shade management, and consistent pest control performed better. These practices align with wider research showing that Kepahiang’s yields, currently averaging below one ton per hectare, could potentially double with the right methods.

A shared milestone

The presence of the Regent, Deputy Regent, Regional House of Representatives, and agricultural officers emphasized the importance of collective commitment. Farmers gained motivation, the district reaffirmed its place in Indonesia’s coffee landscape, and supporting partners such as KAPPI Global helped ensure that progress would not end with Independence Day celebrations.

The Robusta Coffee Farm Competition 2025 was not simply a one-day contest—it was a milestone, showing how recognition, collaboration, and ongoing support can help Kepahiang’s robusta farmers take their next steps forward.