Shima

Producer: Rwamatamu Coffee

Region: Western Province of Rwanda

Elevation: 1,600 - 2,000 masl 

Variety: Red Burbon

Process: Washed 

We are all about community here at Little Amps, and that is why we are stoked to be releasing a coffee from Kibuye, the Western Province of Rwanda via Bridging Tables! 

Laetitia Mukantwaza and Gaston Rutaganda, also known as Mama and Papa B, are responsible for producing delicious, quality coffee for nearly a decade. Their passion for coffee grew throughout the years as their family did. Now, Mama and Papa B work alongside their daughter to run Rwamatamu. Bernice has been continuing the family tradition by strengthening the family’s principle of meaningful social impact through ethical business operations. 

Together, they run their business ‘petit a petit’--little bit by little bit. Gaston believes that his success is attributed to building close relationships with local farmers in the area and uplifting and empowering women working to harvest coffee. 

Throughout the years Laetitia and Gaston have shared their success with their community. Laetitia founded the Women's Cooperative at Rwamatamu Coffee. The goal of this cooperative is to provide hands-on training in planting, cultivation, and fertilization, empowering them to manage the coffee plot independently. The women harvest their crop at the end of the season and sell the crop back directly to Rwamatamu Coffee. Eventually, the women of the cooperative will buy the plot of land and independently run and foster long term financial stability.  

Similarly, Rwamatamu started a Youth Cooperative that provides 24 young adults the opportunity to build self sufficiency similarly to the Women's Cooperative. Engaging local individuals not only creates financial stability, but creates more interest in growing and producing quality coffee for people all around the world to enjoy. 

Their dedication and hard work is shown to be positive by just how delicious this coffee is. This coffee highlights notes of grapefruit, tartness of cranberry, and is evened out by sweet honey!