FIELD TRIP - KILIMBI | RWANDA

FIELD TRIP - KILIMBI | RWANDA

Kilimbi Washing Station

Nyamasheke District, Lake Kivu, Rwanda

This coffee is produced by smallholder farmers working in partnership with the Kilimbi Washing Station, located in Rwanda’s Nyamasheke district along the shores of Lake Kivu. The station is owned and operated by Muraho Trading Company, a young and innovative company founded by two brothers with deep roots in the local community.

Muraho’s mission is simple: to showcase the exceptional quality of Rwandan coffee while creating meaningful, long-term impact for the farmers they work with. Through strong relationships and investment in infrastructure, they support producers in accessing specialty markets and improving quality year after year.

Community & Craft

Established in 2016, Kilimbi was the first washing station built by Muraho and remains at the heart of their story. Now managed by Radjab Mvuyekure, the station processes approximately 300–350 metric tonnes of coffee each harvest across washed, honey, and natural methods.

One of Kilimbi’s most unique features is its connection to Lake Kivu—some farmers deliver their coffee cherries by boat, a rare and distinctive part of the region’s coffee logistics. Alongside nearby Gisheke, it’s one of the only stations where this happens.

Innovation & Impact

Since its founding, Kilimbi has become a key player in Rwanda’s specialty coffee movement. Along with Rugali CWS, it was among the first in the country to legally produce and export natural and honey processed coffees, helping expand Rwanda’s reputation beyond traditional washed profiles.

This forward-thinking approach, combined with a strong foundation in quality and community, continues to position Kilimbi as one of Rwanda’s most respected washing stations.

In the Cup

Expect a clean and vibrant profile typical of high-quality Rwandan coffee:

• Bright citrus and stone fruit acidity
• Delicate floral notes
• Smooth tea-like body with a refined sweetness

A beautifully structured coffee, ideal for filter brewing and expressive, fruit-forward cups