THE ORIGIN REPORT
Rwanda WCE Kawa Yacu
Region: Kamonyi
Elevation: 1700 MASL
Washing Station: Mbizi
Varietal: Bourbon
Process: Natural
The Story Behind the Coffee
Our newest single origin, Rwanda WCE Kawa Yacu, comes from the lush hills of Rwanda and represents far more than an exceptional cup. It’s the result of a powerful, women-led movement in specialty coffee, produced by the Women Coffee Extension (WCE) at the Mbizi Coffee Washing Station. Founded in 2017 by Aline Christine and Odette Uwamariya, WCE was created to give women coffee producers a stronger voice, greater access to resources, and long-term economic stability within Rwanda’s coffee sector. What began as a small initiative has grown into a cooperative of over 700 female producers, all contributing cherries to this remarkable lot.
Grown at elevations around 1700 meters above sea level, the coffee thrives in Rwanda’s fertile volcanic soils and cool highland climate, ideal conditions for developing complexity, sweetness, and vibrant acidity. The result is a coffee that reflects both the strength of its community and the clarity of its origin.
What Makes This Coffee Unique
Kawa Yacu is a natural processed Bourbon, dried slowly on raised beds after harvest. This method allows the coffee cherries to dry intact, encouraging deeper fruit development and layered sweetness while preserving structure and balance.
Beyond the process itself, what truly sets this coffee apart is the care and intention behind it. WCE focuses heavily on education and empowerment, offering members access to agricultural training, nutrition programs, family planning resources, and even livestock initiatives that help diversify income and improve quality of life. These efforts have led to measurable improvements in both yield and quality, with production at the washing station doubling over time.
In the cup, this coffee is vibrant, expressive, and deeply satisfying. Expect notes of cranberry and orange, with a bright pop of raspberry acidity. The body is plush and full, giving the coffee a jammy, almost wine-like presence that lingers long after each sip.
Why We Love It
Rwanda WCE Kawa Yacu is everything we look for in a standout single origin: a compelling story, intentional sourcing, and a cup profile that’s both exciting and balanced. It’s bold without being overwhelming, fruit-forward without losing structure, and deeply sweet from start to finish.
This coffee shines as a pour-over, where its fruit complexity and acidity take center stage, but it’s equally enjoyable as a richer brew that highlights its body and sweetness. Most importantly, it represents the kind of coffee we’re proud to share—one that supports meaningful change while delivering an unforgettable drinking experience.
If you’re drawn to expressive, fruit-driven coffees with heart and purpose behind them, this one is truly something special.
