Rwanda Twongere Kawa Coko - Women's Mill

Rwandan coffee was first sold in 2002, just a few years after the devastating 1994 genocide left the country in turmoil. At that time, there were few places in the world more in need of economic growth and stability than Rwanda, and the production of high-quality coffee became a major focus for the country.

Today, Rwandan coffee production focuses on quality rather than quantity. Known as the "land of a thousand hills", many farmers grow their produce on the hillsides and within lush, wild valleys. They are often members of local coffee cooperatives, which organize the processing and distribution of their products.

Founded by 11 coffee farmers in 2009, Twongere Kawa Coko is one such cooperative. President Thérèse says: "I am very proud that most of our members are women and that they have the aspiration to further expand the work."

Twongere Kawa Coko has provided support to its farmers and the local community in several ways:

• The old coffee shop is now used for women's crafts and sewing classes, to help women earn extra income outside of the coffee season.
• They provide training to their members on managing small income generating projects.
• They supported women in accessing funds and materials to make decorative materials for homes, which are sold within their communities.
• They also train their members on the importance of planting trees to prevent soil erosion and reduce the effects of climate change.

COUNTRY: Rwanda

SPECIES: Arabica
VARIETY: French Mission, Bourbon
PROCESSING: Washed, double fermentation (24 hours)
PRODUCTION AREA: Gakenke District, Northern Province
ALTITUDE: 1,800 - 2,200 m
SIEVE: 17/18

SCA SCORE: 86,25

Cup profile: aromas of dried fruit and coconut; balanced taste with notes of pineapple and candied fruit; full and round body; malic and balanced acidity.