Mbilima, Espresso - Rwanda

Located in Rwanda’s north-western highlands, Mbilima is one of the washing stations operated by the Dukunde Kawa Musasa Cooperative. Founded in 2005, the station was established closer to local farming communities to make cherry delivery easier while improving the quality and consistency of processing.

The cooperative works with local smallholder farmers to produce high-quality coffees for the international market, while creating employment opportunities, particularly for women, and supporting the wider community. It also reinvests 10% of its annual net profits into the development of new washing stations across Rwanda, helping extend access to quality-focused processing infrastructure.

This Red Bourbon Natural receives meticulous attention from harvest through drying. Ripe cherries are first hand-selected before undergoing flotation and mechanical sorting, which separates cherries according to density and removes lower-quality fruit.

The selected cherries are then spread across raised African drying beds and dried slowly in the sun for 22–45 days, depending on weather and humidity. During drying, the coffee is regularly turned to ensure even airflow and moisture reduction, while hand-sorting removes defective cherries. The beds are covered during rain and the hottest part of the day to protect the coffee and minimise the risk of mould or uncontrolled fermentation.

The result is a beautifully expressive example of Rwandan natural-processed coffee. Expect blood orange, chocolate and black tea, supported by bright acidity, layered sweetness and a subtle spiced finish.

• Region: Northern Province
• Country: Rwanda
• Elevation: 1,900 - 2,200 masl
• Variety: Red Bourbon
• Process: Natural