This delicious coffee comes from Rwanda, the ‘Land of 1,000 Hills’. It is grown by small-holder farmers who are members of the Abakundakawa Co-operative which owns and operates two processing mills and exports the coffee as well. These farmers grow coffee on very small plots of land- averaging just 0.2 hectares. They receive education in farming practices which has significantly increased production. The co-op also provides health insurance and dairy cows for members. Abakundakawa runs two women’s associations which provide training in sewing and tailoring to young women. Coffee production supports these health, education and food security projects and also brings in much needed foreign capital.

This lot of coffee is a Bourbon varietal selection. It is grown in Rwanda’s northern district of Gakenke- an area of rolling volcanic hills known for it’s quality coffee production. The Co-op’s 400 member “Ishema” group of female producers deliver freshly picked coffee cherries to the Rushashi wet mill. The cherries are depulped of their fruit and washed in clean water before being dried on raised beds. The quality Bourbon varietal, high elevation, volcanic soil, fresh picking and careful processing all contribute to a delicious coffee with strong regional character.

Abakundakawa Ishema is an elegant and nuanced coffee. It has prominent notes of stone fruit, flowers and caramel. We especially love the rounded acidity paired with vivid fruit notes. From the Land of 1,000 Hills, we welcome you to enjoy Abakundakawa.