Nyabumera 1033

Farm: Nyabumera 1033
Owner: Providence
Location: Mahembe Sector, Nyamasheke District, Western Province, Rwanda
Altitude: 1800masl
Varietal: Red Bourbon
Process: Natural
Roast: Omni
Notes of: Plum, raisin, dark chocolate and almond

We sourced this coffee through Falcon Specialty Coffee who had the following to share:

Nyabumera washing station is in the Mahembe sector of Nyamasheke District. It is strategically located at the entrance of the valley. Acquired by new owner, Providence, in 2023, the station unfortunately had faced neglect for the previous two years. Providence has taken proactive steps to revitalise the space, clean up certain areas, and plans to increase the number of drying beds and build a larger storage facility on-site.

The station operates with a team of 5 permanent staff, including 2 women, and employs 80 to 100 seasonal workers during peak harvest times, with 70% of the workforce being women.

In 2023, the annual production volume is projected to reach 210mt, with ambitious targets of 700mt and a long-term potential of 1000mt. The isolated location and the extensive network of farmers residing in the surrounding hills contribute to this vast potential.

Nyabumera, in 2023, received deliveries from 1200 farmers in the zone; farmers were registered at delivery and enrolled in training programs (ATP) during both the harvest and off-season. Training sessions are conducted at the station and include farm visits.

Coffee cherries are collected from various points, while some farmers bring their produce on foot. With 20 collection points, Nyabumera facilitates the seamless gathering of coffee from the surrounding areas.

This year marks the first collaboration with the ATP program, bringing in organic fertilisers mixed with chemicals, a common practice in the region. The station draws water from a local spring and after separating husks and mucilage for composting, the water undergoes filtration through stones in the water pit and is neutralized with EM and lime before being discharged.

As a testament to future growth, Nyabumera has 100 000 seedlings ready for distribution in 2023 to support local farmers, showcasing a commitment to sustainable and thriving coffee farming in the region.