The Akagera Coffee Project, founded by Egide Murindababisha, stands as a pioneering initiative in Rwanda’s growing coffee industry. This project embodies a model of social enterprise that goes beyond coffee production. The project operates two washing stations, Mukama and Akagera, and reinvests 30% of its net income to support local coffee-growing communities. By providing agricultural schools, coffee seedlings, shade trees, and establishing preschool programs for the children of coffee farmers, the project actively contributes to improving the livelihood of these communities.
Murindababisha's passion for quality and community development has led to the establishment of training programs for young people and women, impacting over 2,453 coffee producers. These initiatives are seen as key drivers for increasing both the quality and quantity of coffee produced in the Kayonza district in Rwanda’s Eastern Province. The Akagera Coffee Project is also tapping into coffee tourism, inviting visitors to experience the coffee-making process firsthand.
In Murindababisha’s words, "Our mission is to position Rwanda as a regional leader in coffee by emphasizing quality and traceability. We aim to elevate the practices of farmers to an agribusiness level, ensuring higher standards and greater success." This forward-thinking approach has earned the Akagera Coffee Project the Gold Seal Gender Equality Certification for its dedication to empowering women in the coffee industry.
By bridging the gap between the seed and the cup, the project has not only boosted international exports but also fostered a deeper appreciation for Rwanda's coffee within the global market.
Quote: “Egide Murindababisha's project has already brought substantial changes to the coffee-growing communities by promoting education, women's empowerment, and sustainability, proving that coffee can be a tool for social transformation” (Revista Fórum del Café (Number N98) ).