Bonga University (BoU) is a public higher education institution located in Bonga town, the capital of Kaffa Zone, Southwest Ethiopia. It was officially established by the decision of the Ethiopian government in **2015 (2007 E.C.)** as part of the national strategy to expand access to higher education and strengthen regional development.
The university began academic activities after receiving its establishment proclamation, building the foundation for administrative structures, academic departments, and core support services. The first group of students was enrolled in **2016/2017** in three pioneering colleges.
During its initial academic years, Bonga University launched programs focused on Ethiopia’s strategic development needs:
These early disciplines reflected the ecological richness of Kaffa — a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve and birthplace of Arabica coffee — and the region’s need for trained professionals in natural resource management, agro-economy, and public services.
Bonga is widely believed to be one of the original homelands of **Arabica coffee**. Historically, Kaffa Kingdom played a major role in trade and culture in southwest Ethiopia. Bonga University was strategically placed here to preserve local heritage, promote research, and empower regional communities through education.
Since 2017, the university has expanded quickly:
Today, Bonga University operates modern campuses and continues to develop postgraduate research and community services aligned with national priorities.
Bonga University’s mission is to provide quality education anchored in innovation, sustainability, and responsible use of natural resources. The vision is to become a leading higher institution in East Africa specializing in:
The university actively collaborates with regional government, farmers, NGOs, and local youth. It provides:
Through these efforts, Bonga University supports socio-economic transformation in Southwestern Ethiopia.
Bonga University continues progressing toward full institutional maturity. New academic programs, digital learning infrastructure, and research centers are under development. The institution is also expanding partnerships with other universities and regional industries.