Lake Kivu Coffee

Lake Kivu is suitable for all filter coffee preparation methods. We especially recommend preparation by pour-over, for example with the Hario V60. The AeroPress or a classic coffee machine also bring out the nuances of this coffee perfectly. The medium roast ensures a harmonious balance that you can enjoy both pure and in combination with cow’s milk or milk alternatives.

The coffee stems from our special connection to the coffee cooperative Rebuild Women’s Hope (RWH), which was founded in 2013 by human rights activist Marceline Budza and has been led by her ever since. Inspired by the resilience of her own mother, who raised her four daughters alone, she made it her mission to find practical ways to sustainably change the lives of Congolese women in rural areas. One of these regions is Idjwi Island, located in the middle of Lake Kivu—the namesake of our exceptional Arabica coffee.

For generations, the farmers on Idjwi have largely depended on the coffee they grow. Through Rebuild Women’s Hope, they now have the opportunity to process their coffee at a high level and no longer rely on smugglers to bring raw coffee across Lake Kivu to neighboring Rwanda. Additionally, the cooperative is currently investing in the construction of a Women’s Center and a hospital. At RWH, women are at the center: they actively participate in decision-making and are seen as integral to the development of their communities.

Processing

RWH operates four washing stations where the coffee cherries are further processed. The hand-sorted cherries are depulped and cleaned of the remaining pulp in a water tank. Then, they are dried on elevated drying beds for about 14 days. This type of washed process particularly highlights the fruity and complex character of Lake Kivu coffee.

Kongo: Lake Kivu

• Origin: Idjiwi Island, Lake Kivu, Kongo
• Farmer: Rebuild Women’s Hope Cooperative (RWH)
• Geo-Coordinates: 2°12’55.6″S 29°03’34.8″E
• Altitude: 2.000 m n.n.
• Processing: washed
• Arabica Variety: Bourbon