Rwanda - Twongerekawa Coko wash station

Variety : Red Bourbon

Altitude : 1800 - 2000 m.a.s.l

Process : Washed & African Beds

Score : 84.25 

Roasted for : Filter 

Discover the Rich Story Behind Samson's Got Soul, our Rwandan Filter Coffee at Groundstate Coffee Roasters

At Groundstate Coffee Roasters, we're thrilled with how this Rwandan coffee has turned out. Its vibrant juiciness and high sweetness bear a striking resemblance to the finest Kenyan coffees, making it a standout in our collection. But what truly sets this coffee apart is the remarkable story behind it—one that’s deeply rooted in community and sustainability.

A Journey of Transformation: The Twongerekawa Coko Cooperative

In 2009, eleven female coffee farmers, led by Thérèse Nyrangwabije—now the president of the cooperative—embarked on a mission to revolutionize their traditional coffee farming practices. Located in Rwanda’s Northern Province, an area less known than the famous Lake Kivu region, these farmers used to sell their homegrown coffee by the roadside to passing buyers. Determined to change their fortunes, they carefully saved their earnings, invested in their own land, and with support from the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB), they built the infrastructure needed to transform their operations.

Today, the Twongerekawa Coko Cooperative is a shining example of success. With 200 raised beds for drying coffee and a workforce of 80 employees during the peak season, the cooperative has become a significant player in the region. Notably, 75% of the 384 members are women—a considerable increase over the past few years. This growth has empowered the cooperative to offer training and support on various topics, from income-generating projects to sustainable practices like tree planting for soil erosion control and climate change adaptation.

A Commitment to Sustainability and Community

Twongerekawa Coko goes beyond coffee production. The cooperative has established a youth committee responsible for preparing organic compost, which ensures the continued health of the coffee plants. They also distribute free seedlings to maintain plant vigor and crop quality. Additionally, the cooperative’s commitment to fighting malnutrition in children is evident through their organic chicken and goat farming initiatives, where they provide free chickens and eggs to local farmers.

Expanding their impact even further, the cooperative has begun producing essential oils, such as eucalyptus and geranium, and has plans to develop eco-tourism by building eco-lodges.

Support Sustainable Coffee from Rwanda

When you purchase this coffee from Groundstate Coffee Roasters, you're not just enjoying a cup of exceptional coffee; you're supporting a cooperative that’s making a real difference in Rwanda. This is more than just coffee—it's a story of resilience, community, and sustainable growth.

Experience the rich flavors and inspiring story of our Samson's Got Soul coffee, available for purchase online and delivered across Ireland. Your purchase helps empower communities and sustain the environment, one cup at a time.