The Sporkful How To Export Coffee In A War (Pt 2) (Reheat)
Jun 13, 2025
Mokhtar Alkhanshali, an unlikely coffee entrepreneur and subject of Dave Eggers' 'The Monk of Mocha', details his harrowing journey during Yemen's civil war. He recounts his near-death experiences and imprisonment while desperately trying to export coffee samples to a major fair. The narrative explores his resilience, the rich history of Yemeni coffee, and his unexpected wrongful arrest in Djibouti. Ultimately, Mokhtar's determination leads him from chaos to showcasing Yemeni coffee at a prestigious expo, empowering local farmers along the way.
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Surviving Imprisonment With Coffee
- Mokhtar was imprisoned blindfolded during war, with $5,000 hidden in his underwear and coffee samples confiscated.
- Despite harsh conditions, his money was never discovered, which helped him survive and continue his mission.
Resourceful in Djibouti Jail
- Mokhtar was arrested in Djibouti as a suspected drug smuggler with his coffee samples.
- He used creativity to modify a SIM card to communicate while imprisoned, which helped facilitate his release.
Yemeni Coffee's Breakthrough
- Mokhtar's Yemeni coffee scored higher at the Specialty Coffee Association Expo than any Yemen coffee ever had.
- Blue Bottle's CEO praised his coffee as "what angel singing tastes like," showing newfound respect for Yemeni coffee.