RWANDA | KININI VILLAGE | NATURAL

Rwanda's coffee sector has undergone a remarkable transformation since the turn of the millennium. In 2000, following the election of Paul Kagame, Rwanda's government focused on revitalizing the coffee industry by building infrastructure like washing stations and promoting specialty coffee production. By 2018, Rwanda had become a leader in washed top lots, with 60% of its total production falling into the specialty category. This transformation has been driven by the rise of cooperatives, with over 200 registered groups across the country, and the establishment of dedicated washing stations in nearly every district.

The coffee industry’s structure is now shaped by zoning laws that designate specific mills for each region, a move designed to reduce exploitation by middlemen and streamline the processing of coffee. Although the system aims to protect farmers, it has also raised questions about autonomy and the balance between certifications and quality premiums. Despite these challenges, the focus on specialty coffee continues to elevate Rwanda’s global reputation, with the country now exporting 99% of its coffee to markets in the USA, Japan, and Europe. The result is a coffee culture that reflects Rwanda's resilience and commitment to quality, with the government’s focus on developing sustainable, high-value coffee production as a key part of the nation’s future.

PROCESS: Natural

Natural Process is coffee in its most unfiltered form—a slow, sun-drenched transformation where cherries are left to dry whole, allowing the fruit’s sugars to infuse the beans. This ancient method nurtures bold, fruit-forward flavors with rich sweetness and a velvety body. Untouched by water, the coffee develops deep complexity, often reminiscent of ripe berries, wine, and chocolate. It is a process of patience and artistry, where nature shapes the cup in its own time.

Altitude: 1800-2200 MASL

Variety: Bourbon

Harvest Season: 2024

Production Roaster: Probat P12

Kinini, meaning "this big thing right here," is a collective effort of cooperatives united by a shared vision to improve their livelihoods through coffee cultivation. The cooperative, primarily composed of women (85%), operates in the Tumba and Mageragere villages, with a washing station located in Kinini town. This collaboration was born from the drive of Jacquie Turner and Malcolm Clear, who, after years of community development work in Eastern Rwanda, saw coffee as a way to create lasting generational impact. Despite their initial lack of coffee knowledge, their commitment to empowering farmers led them to provide technical support, coffee seedlings, and a fully-equipped washing station. By 2017, their efforts culminated in their first significant harvest, with Tumba Village producing 87-point coffee—a testament to their vision and perseverance.

The project’s structure was unique, offering farmers land leases that included access to coffee trees, training, and organization. Farmers delivered their cherries to the Kinini washing station for processing, ensuring they received a fair price. By 2017, Kinini Coffee had gained international attention for its quality, and it marked the beginning of an exciting journey for this community. The success of Kinini Coffee shows the power of collaboration, innovation, and a deep commitment to supporting the farmers and their communities.