We've had the privilege of collaborating with Bumbogo CWS (Community Washing Station) since 2017, and we're honored to share that we were the second international buyer to engage with and visit Bumbogo. Over the course of our partnership, we've had the incredible opportunity to visit the farm on three occasions, and each time, we were greeted with a heartwarming traditional song and dance. This genuine and warm welcome into their place of business is an experience that never fails to leave us in awe.
For those who have been loyal fans of Bumbogo coffee, you may have grown accustomed to the washed process from Bumbogo. However, this time, we have something special in store—a natural process from Bumbogo. This coffee is still very Bumbogo-esque, but with a heavier body and higher sweetness. Look for golden raisins and brown sugar as your sweet flavours and that lovely note of apricot reminds us of Bumbogo's surrounding terroir.
Emmanuel Rusatira, one of the partners and founders of Bumbogo, has demonstrated a clear vision for the mill's role in stimulating the local economy. This vision became a resounding success after the mill's inaugural operating season in 2017. Bumbogo is strategically positioned to handle large volumes of coffee, and like the other mills under MTCo's operation, they are committed to paying a premium per pound of cherry to the hardworking farmers they collaborate with.
Despite the challenges presented by the 2020 season, Bumbogo recorded transactions with 523 farmers who sold their coffee to the mill. An impressive 300 tonnes of cherry were procured for processing during this period. To manage this substantial volume, the mill employed 105 workers during the peak season. This serves as a testament to the profound economic impact that Bumbogo has in its region.
Notably, a significant proportion of the workers at Bumbogo are women. In line with this, Bumbogo and other mills operated by Muraho Trading Co are dedicated to empowering the female workforce in Rwanda. We believe in fostering a culture of inclusivity and equitable opportunities, and it's heartening to see these principles put into action at Bumbogo and beyond.
—Rosso Coffee Roasters
