The Multi-Hour Ritual That Turns Coffee into Community

A Cultural Hearth in the Horn of Africa

In Ethiopia and Eritrea, preparing and drinking coffee is far more than a morning caffeine fix; it is a central social ritual known simply as the coffee ceremony, or Buna. Regarded as an essential expression of hospitality, respect, and friendship, the ceremony is traditionally conducted by the woman of the household. It is not an occasional novelty reserved solely for holidays, but an integral rhythm of daily life, frequently performed up to three times a day—in the morning, afternoon, and evening.

The preparation transforms the living space into a sensory sanctuary. Before the brewing begins, the host sweeps the floor and covers it with long, fresh green grass or fragrant flowers, a gesture that symbolizes freshness and welcome. A small charcoal stove or brazier is brought into the room, and incense—such as frankincense, myrrh, or aromatic gum—is set onto burning embers. The thick, fragrant smoke cleanses the air, sets a peaceful mood, and signals to neighbors that coffee is being prepared, effectively serving as an open invitation to gather.

Roasting and Sharing the Aroma

The ceremony starts with raw, unroasted green coffee beans. The host carefully washes the beans in clean water to remove dust and the thin outer husks, then places them into a long-handled, flat iron pan known as a menkeskesha. Over the glowing charcoal brazier, the beans are roasted slowly and continuously stirred to ensure an even roast. As the beans darken from pale green to a glossy, oily dark brown, they crackle and release their oils into the room.