Gashonga Cooperative

Tasting Notes: Orange, Toffee, Peanut Brittle

Region - Gashonga Sector, Rusizi District, Southwestern Rwanda

Process - Washed

Harvest - December to April

Elevation - 1,650 MASL

Varietal - Bourbon

In 2009, 85 women coffee farmers started the Gashonga Cooperative to pool their resources and become stronger as a group. The cooperative struggled in its early months, as it suffered from poor management and was unable to find market access. However, the cooperative persevered and grew stronger, thanks in part to training from the nonprofit sustainable growers. These trainings taught farmers about best agricultural practices to improve quality and volume. The trainings also stressed to the farmers the importance of working together as a team to improve the cooperatives collective future.

Today, the cooperative is fair trade certified, has grown to 104 members, and has managed to increase its income from coffee. With these increased profits, Gashonga has invested in initiatives such as education for its members and agronomic inputs to strengthen its coffee plants. Gashonga’s members have been able to acquire health insurance, empowering their security and safety through their success.

Southwest Highlands Of Ethiopia In The Jimma, Oromia Region

Tasting Notes: Jasmine Tea, Blackberry, Sweet Basil

Process: Washed and dried on bed

Varietals: Heirloom Ethiopian

Elevation: 1,800- 2,100 MASL

Limmu Kossa is a family owned and operated Estate located in the Jimma Zone of Ethiopia. The Limmu Kossa Team is dedicated to producing high-quality coffee and preserving the environment using modern technology and indigenous trees for its shade-grown coffee, as well as leading social efforts in their community.