The Akagera Coffee Project (ACP) is a prominent social enterprise in Rwanda that bridges the gap between smallholder farmers and the global specialty coffee market. Founded in 2016 by Egide Murindababisha, the project operates primarily in the Kayonza District (Eastern Province) but extends its reach to the Nyamasheke District (Western Province) near Lake Kivu.
Coffee Varieties: The primary crop is Red Bourbon (specifically BM 139), grown at high altitudes between 1,450 and 2,400 meters above sea level.
Social & Environmental Impact
The project is recognized as a Social Private Enterprise with a focus on community development:
- Empowerment: Over 80% of employees are women, and the project actively supports youth and women's employment.
- Education: ACP operates an early childhood education center (preschool) for the children of its farmers and employees.
- Sustainability: They distribute over 100,000 coffee seedlings annually and use innovative agricultural techniques like adding biochar to soil for improved fertility.
