Off the Grid Coffee in Namibia!

Friday, 18 July, 2025

In a world of constant innovation, Deon Vermeulen, owner and creator of Fired-Up Coffee Roasters, and recently acquired Namibian Coffee Roasters, is the mind behind creating a completely off grid gas-operated coffee machine —designed and built right in Namibia. The theory and design celebrate different eras. This is a completely unique contraption, able to brew delicious moka pots and steam milk. No electricity is required—making it ideal for mobile coffee carts, rural setups, or eco-conscious cafes.

He is now putting these gas powered pieces of art into the world. If you think this steampunk, steam-powered coffee maker is the statement piece you’ve been looking for, you can have one! 

Deon is a double-coded welder, former Namibian Navy Commando driver, and seasoned construction and manufacturing expert with over 10 years of experience.

“I followed my true calling into coffee and is now a roaster with SCA (Specialty Coffee Association) qualifications.”

That isn’t the only point of difference! Fired-Up Coffee Roasters was born in the heart of Okahandja Namibia — where passion for coffee and a deep respect for nature come together. 

“We are proud to have perfected the rare art of wood-fired coffee roasting, using locally sourced Namibian woods and select exotic varieties like oak and rosewood. Our roasts feature the unique character of indigenous woods such as Camelthorn, Mopane, and Swarthak — infusing every batch with the soul of Namibia. These local hardwoods give the coffee a bold, full-bodied flavour, with hints of smoky caramel and rich chocolate notes. The result? A truly exotic coffee profile that stands worlds apart from conventional gas-roasted coffee — even when made from the same coffee beans.”

This unusual roasting method is also something Deon feels passionate about. He personally built the wood-fired coffee roasting machine. His craftsmanship and dedication have made it possible to create a roasting system unlike any other — tailored to bring out the best from both the beans and the wood. This must be a very unique flavour profile, so interested to try! Taking sitting around the campfire to a coffee level

They also have traditional gas roasters on hand, there’s something for everyone! Namibian Coffee Roasters is one of the most well-established and advanced coffee roasteries in Namibia. As one of the oldest players in the industry, they have built a strong reputation for consistency and innovation in coffee production. The facility is equipped with two large gas roasters and a state-of-the-art capsule production machine, making them a key contributor to Namibia's growing coffee culture.

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