CDNT
It was at this meeting that the seeds were sown for what would become CDNT and LaREB. A collective of coffee producers, each pulling in the same direction for the good of their communities. Several producers from the meeting began to form the association in the years after this meeting, many of which we have worked with several times over the years, such as Herbert Peñaloza, Educardo and Yesid Flores, Leonela Vergara and Albeiro Arbelaez. CDNT are the Caficultores Diferenciado del Norte del Tolima, or the association of differentiated coffee growers of Northern Tolima. Together, the group have worked to improve both the quality and range of the coffees they produce, and through LaREB, have found roasters willing to pay good prices for quality. Through this, they can create a more economically viable business producing coffee, and continue to serve and enrich their communities.
A lush landscape
During our visits to the region around Casabianca and Villahermosa, we are reminded of the remoteness of the area, with few cars to be seen on the narrow roads that snake through the valleys and mountainsides of the stunning lush green landscape. We are always struck by the openness and hospitality of the people here, warmly welcoming us and each other into their homes.
