OUR APPROACH
Our approach is built on six strategic pillars
that combine environmental regeneration,
cultural preservation, and social empowerment.
Regenerative
agriculture
We replace monocrop with agroforestry systems
that regenerate the soil and biodiversity.
CAFE LAHU promotes regenerative agriculture and tree-based agriculture as a long-term solution to environmental degradation. This approach replaces monocrop with diversified agroforestry systems, combining organic coffee trees with shade trees, fruit trees, and native plants. The method restores soil health, reduces erosion, increases biodiversity, and improves water retention. Farmers receive training in organic practices, compost production, and natural pest management, ensuring higher-quality crops without harmful chemicals. The goal is not just to produce coffee, but to rebuild ecosystems that sustain the community and future generations. Regenerative agriculture as a holistic approach to sustainable farming that focuses on restoring natural resources on farms and in the surrounding landscapes. By restoring soil health and protecting biodiversity we will contribute positively to nature. Transitioning from the non-longer economically sustainable friendly nor socially beneficial corn plantation to sustainable and regenerative agriculture agro forestry systems and organic coffee could o fer a more resilient and profitable future for local communities while preserving the natural environment. By integrating trees with crops, tree-based agriculture enhaces soil health, increases carbon sequestration and supports biodiversity. These systems can store nearly as much carbon as young forestes, offering a viable path to mitigate climate change and reduce dependence on natural forests. Reforestation: Reforestation and progressive transformation of corn monocrops into agroforestry systems with organic fruit trees. Organic Coffee: Once reforestation is stabilized, organic coffee plantations will be established on restored lands.
We replace monocrop with agroforestry systems that regenerate the soil and biodiversity.
Education & Ecological awareness
We create educational opportunities and promote environmental awareness for all ages.
Education is at the heart of CAFE LAHU’s mission. We will work with local schools, community groups, and volunteers to provide training in sustainable farming, environmental protection, and cultural heritage. For children, activities include environmental awareness and English. For youth and adults, we offer technical courses in coffee cultivation, business skills, and leadership. These programs strengthen community capacity, foster pride in cultural identity, and prepare future generations to manage resources responsibly.
Volunteering
We welcome volunteers to contribute skills and learn from the Lahu culture.
CAFE LAHU hosts volunteers from around the world who wish to contribute to sustainable development while immersing themselves in Lahu culture. Volunteers can participate in coffee farm work, educational programs, infrastructure projects, and cultural documentation. This exchange benefits both the community and the volunteers, fostering mutual learning and long-term connections. Accommodation is provided in traditional-style guesthouses, and all activities are designed to respect the rhythm and traditions of the village.
Water Infrastructure
We improve water access and quality for farming and daily life.
Water is essential for both coffee cultivation and daily life in Kanglaung. The community currently depends on seasonal streams and rudimentary channels, which are vulnerable to drought and contamination. CAFE LAHU works to design and implement gravity-fed water systems, storage tanks, and filtration units. These improvements ensure a reliable supply for households, farming, and reforestation projects. Access to clean water not only improves health but also supports sustainable agriculture and resilience to climate change.
Indigenous culture
We preserve and promote the Lahu cultural heritage.
Preserving Lahu culture is one of the project's main objectives, and indigenous Lahu culture is one of its main pillars. Lahu culture is a treasure of oral history, music, traditional dress, and communal values. CAFE LAHU integrates cultural preservation into every activity, from teaching traditional weaving to hosting festivals that share Lahu heritage with visitors. Documentation projects capture elders’ stories, songs, and agricultural knowledge for future generations. By promoting cultural tourism and artisanal crafts, we create income while strengthening identity and pride within the community.
Women leadership
We empower women as leaders of change in the community.
The vision and clear purpose of a young Lahu woman since childhood are the key to this project, which has been joined by other women in the community. At CAFE LAHU, women play a significant role. Women are central to Lahu society, yet often face barriers to leadership and economic independence. CAFE LAHU promotes women’s participation in decision-making and ensures that women are equally involved in all stages of the project. Empowering women strengthens the whole community and ensures that development is inclusive and sustainable.
Empower the Lahu community through organic coffee, culture, and sustainable tourism
