Africa | Coffee
Cherry-picking the winners: insights from Rwandan arabica coffee
One thousand hills, one thousand tales: Every bag of (specialty) coffee has its own unique origin story to tell. Much of that story relates to the conditions under which coffee plants grow. Rwandan arabica is world-famous for characteristics like bright acidity or floral aromas, thanks to the high altitude (between 1,600-2,000+ meters), volcanic soil and washed processing. Despite the high concentration and proximity of smallholder producers, every hilltop comes with its own tale resulting in a different cup of coffee. For many smallholder farmers across the country, coffee cultivation is more than a tradition—it’s a vital economic lifeline.
Cherry-picking the winners
The success of these farmers depends on a combination of factors that can make or break a successful business case. In a high market pressure environment, some producers are meant to last and others might be less future-proof. What distinguishes the ‘winners’ from the rest? Based on first-hand insights from my May field visit to our Rwandan coffee partners, here are some common traits identified:
Capital preservation & liquidity buffer
Coffee production is a long-term game, which is why cooperatives always have to plan for the next harvest. Picking season might delay, which stretching the cash runway, or farmgate prices might rise. Managing those events requires a (free cash flow) buffer, that cooperatives have preserved from the earnings of previous seasons. Retained earnings also enable for future investments from own pockets.
Access to quality inputs and extension services
Access to high-quality inputs, such as disease-resistant seedlings, organic fertilizers and pesticides, is key to success. Additionally, agricultural extension services play a key role in educating farmers on best practices in planting, pruning, pest control, and harvesting. In Rwanda two actors play a key role: the government and local service providers like Progreso. Together they help boost productivity and improve bean quality
Value addition and processing
In Rwanda, the proliferation of washing stations has improved the quality of coffee significantly. Farmers who have access to nearby washing stations can deliver cherries quickly, preserving their freshness and flavor. This enhances the cupping profile and increases the potential for export at premium prices.
Access to market and pricing
Globally coffee prices reached a record high in 2025, impacting the dynamics between producers and buyers. Price fixing has become increasingly difficult, premium/quality hold relatively less market value and competition increases. In such an environment (direct) access to reliable markets is a game-changer for smallholder farmers. Contracts with international buyers can shield farmers from price volatility.
Climate resilience
The price hike and climate change effects are interconnected as extreme weather conditions lead to poor harvests. Farmers who adopt climate-smart agricultural practices—such as shade-grown coffee and agroforestry models—are more likely to sustain their livelihoods. Training in climate resilience helps secure long-term productivity and ecosystem health.
Ahead of the curve: Dukunde Kawa Cooperative
Picking a winner comes with killing your darlings, but there might be one partner that sets the example for other Rwandan coffee producers. Rabo Foundation has the pleasure to be working together with Dukunde Kawa Musasa cooperative since 2014. Years of consistent reinvestment allowed the cooperative to now sell over 1.3 million kilograms of in-house roasted beans directly to the international market. From those earnings nearly 5,000 members benefit, and beyond that Dukunde is also adding dairy cattle to diversify income in the low seasons. New avenues include the expansion of organic farming, a microloan fund and a barista school for young farmers.
With continued investment and innovation from Rabo Foundation and peers, Rwanda’s coffee sector holds great promise for sustainable rural development.