Kivubelt Coffee

Kivubelt Coffee was founded in 2011 by Teuscher Invest, Ltd., following the acquisition of over 200 acres of land in the Gihombo sector of Rwanda's Nyamasheke district. The company was established with a mission to create a model coffee plantation that integrates sustainable agricultural practices with positive social impact for the local community. Under the leadership of founder Furaha Umwizeye and managing director Claudine Kantengwa, the organization has grown to include the planting of over 90,000 coffee trees on its own estates.

Beyond its primary estates, Kivubelt has expanded its operational footprint by acquiring two key coffee washing stations: Murundo and Jarama. These facilities allow the company to process not only the coffee grown on their own land but also the harvests of surrounding smallholder farmers. This collaborative network, often identified as the 'People's Farm,' enables Kivubelt to facilitate quality separation and provide essential resources to local growers who might otherwise lack access to such infrastructure.

The coffee produced by Kivubelt is primarily derived from local Bourbon varieties, which are deeply rooted in Rwanda’s coffee history. These trees are typically cultivated in the region's volcanic loam soil at high altitudes, ranging from 1,700 to 1,900 meters above sea level. The processing at the Murundo and Jarama stations is predominantly fully washed, a method that highlights the inherent clarity and acidity of the Bourbon variety, often resulting in flavor profiles characterized by tropical fruit, citrus, and chocolate notes.

Kivubelt’s commitment to quality has earned the organization significant recognition within the specialty coffee industry. The company has been a documented winner in the Cup of Excellence competition, including a notable achievement in 2018 where they received a presidential award with a score of 90%. Such accolades underscore the effectiveness of their focus on rigorous processing standards and agricultural management.

The relationship between Kivubelt and the international specialty coffee market is often facilitated through direct trade partnerships. By working closely with roasters, Kivubelt ensures that the specific lots from their washing stations—such as the Murundo and Jarama lots—are traceable and handled with care. This model provides a bridge between the remote, high-altitude farms of the Western Province and global consumers who value transparency and quality.

Today, Kivubelt stands as a boutique but influential player in the Rwandan coffee sector. While the company continues to navigate the challenges of coffee production in one of Africa's most densely populated nations, its dual focus on estate-grown coffee and the support of smallholder farmers remains its core identity. For the roaster and the drinker, the 'Kivubelt' tag represents a consistent standard of quality and a tangible connection to the development of the Nyamasheke coffee landscape.