Let's Learn About the Origin! Rwanda Edition
In our "Discovering Production Regions" series, last time we introduced Ethiopia, the birthplace of coffee.
This time, we will introduce the "Republic of Rwanda" on the same African continent!
It is a small country, about 1.5 times the size of Shikoku, but it is a wonderful country with beautiful nature and cities.
In this country, which has overcome the dark period of the Rwandan genocide since 1994, coffee that captivates many fans is produced.
In Rwanda, coffee is cultivated by approximately 500,000 small-scale farmers who practice natural cultivation without using organic fertilizers.
Regarding processing, natural was previously the mainstream, but due to the specialty coffee boom, washed processing was promoted, and the number of washing stations increased, making washed the mainstream now.
Grades are also evaluated in five stages based on cupping and the number of defects.
The Northern Province, which produces many coffees with citrus and caramel flavors and a balanced sweetness.
The Western Province around Lake Kivu, which produces many coffees with floral aromas and a juicy mouthfeel.
The Southern Province around the Central Plateau, which produces many coffees characterized by floral and citrus scents and a delicate mouthfeel.
And the Eastern Province, which produces many coffees characterized by chocolate and berry flavors.
"Huie Mountain Coffee" is a representative wet mill in the Huie region of southern Rwanda.
Here, the producers and Mr. David, the representative, who has also visited Japan, continue to strive daily for further improvement in coffee quality and working conditions.
Base Coffee also hopes to maintain its unwavering connection to contribute to the advancement of the producers in various ways.
Production Overview
Rwanda, an emerging coffee country with high potential. Coffee, which accounts for about 50% of the country's import revenue, is a crucial crop for improving its socioeconomic situation. Let's look at the production overview of this African country.Production Volume
According to the International Coffee Organization (ICO), Rwanda's coffee production in 2018 was 250,000 bags. Since one bag is 60 kg, 15,000 tons of coffee were produced. In terms of production ranking, it is 10th in Africa and 29th in the world. From a global production perspective, Ethiopian coffee accounts for about 0.15%.Cultivation Methods
Most of the varieties cultivated in Rwanda are Arabica, which is often treated as specialty coffee. Some Robusta, which is sometimes used in canned coffee, is also cultivated, and the harvesting period varies depending on the variety. Arabica is harvested between March and August, and Robusta between May and June.
In Rwanda, coffee is cultivated by approximately 500,000 small-scale farmers who practice natural cultivation without using organic fertilizers.
Regarding processing, natural was previously the mainstream, but due to the specialty coffee boom, washed processing was promoted, and the number of washing stations increased, making washed the mainstream now.
Grades are also evaluated in five stages based on cupping and the number of defects.
Main Production Areas
In Rwanda, located in the center of the African continent, coffee cultivation is carried out in a wide area. Known as the "land of a thousand hills," Rwanda has rugged terrain with many towering mountains. Coffee is cultivated on the mid-slopes of these steep mountains and in highlands with abundant volcanic ash soil. The cultivation areas can be broadly divided into four regions.
The Northern Province, which produces many coffees with citrus and caramel flavors and a balanced sweetness.
The Western Province around Lake Kivu, which produces many coffees with floral aromas and a juicy mouthfeel.
The Southern Province around the Central Plateau, which produces many coffees characterized by floral and citrus scents and a delicate mouthfeel.
And the Eastern Province, which produces many coffees characterized by chocolate and berry flavors.
Characteristics
Rwandan coffee is characterized by sweet fruity aromas and floral aromas. Since Bourbon is a common variety, its clear aroma can also be considered a characteristic. Another appeal is its balance and ease of drinking. For Base Coffee, Rwandan coffee holds a special place. Enjoy the vibrant aroma reminiscent of pineapple and unique nuances like ginger and honey in Rwanda Huie Mountain Gako Farm
"Huie Mountain Coffee" is a representative wet mill in the Huie region of southern Rwanda.
Here, the producers and Mr. David, the representative, who has also visited Japan, continue to strive daily for further improvement in coffee quality and working conditions.
Base Coffee also hopes to maintain its unwavering connection to contribute to the advancement of the producers in various ways.