Striving for sustainability in Rwanda’s coffee industry

Rwanda has made significant strides in promoting sustainable coffee production by focusing on visibility and traceability within the coffee supply chain. The country has established a controlled value chain that offers opportunities for improvement and growth in the coffee industry. CNBC Africa recently interviewed Astrid Genard, the ICU Rwanda country coordinator, to gain insights into the initiatives being undertaken to enhance the prosperity of farmers within the coffee value chain. Genard highlighted the importance of traceability in the coffee sector, emphasizing the need to ensure fair prices for farmers and enhance their livelihoods. The controlled value chain in Rwanda enables coffee washing stations to work closely with farmers, supporting them in improving quality and adopting climate-resilient practices. By fostering trust and collaboration between stakeholders, the industry aims to uplift farmers and promote sustainable farming methods. Genard also addressed the challenge of assessing the impact of coffee exports on farmers' livelihoods. While Rwanda has seen a significant increase in coffee exports and value, there is a lack of focus on how these developments benefit farmers directly. Genard stressed the need for comprehensive surveys and data collection to understand the true impact on farmers' incomes and well-being. ICU Rwanda has been working on initiatives such as village saving groups to provide financial support and training to farmers, empowering them to invest in their futures. Furthermore, climate change poses a significant threat to the global coffee industry, highlighting the importance of sustainable farming practices. Rwanda is actively working with the Kahawatu Foundation to implement the Farmer Field School (FFS) methodology, which empowers farmer leaders to experiment with climate-resilient farming techniques. By engaging farmers in finding solutions to climate challenges, Rwanda aims to build resilience and sustainability within the coffee sector. The interview shed light on the intricate linkages between coffee washing stations, farmers, and the broader community. Genard underscored the need for transparency and fair pricing to ensure the prosperity of farmers and the growth of the industry. By investing in quality improvement, training, and certification programs, Rwanda aims to position its specialty coffee in the global market and create a positive impact on farmers' lives. As Rwanda continues its journey towards sustainability in the coffee industry, stakeholders must prioritize the well-being of farmers, promote transparency, and embrace innovative farming practices. By fostering a collaborative and inclusive approach, Rwanda can further enhance its reputation as a leader in sustainable coffee production.