New RWACOF Partnerships Aim to Steady Rwanda’s Coffee Market

10, Feb-2026 Mugisha R. John

Rwanda Coffee Exporters and Processors Company (RWACOF) says new partnerships with coffee washing station owners are expected to bring greater stability to Rwanda’s coffee market, as the company builds on decades of operations in the country.

RWACOF, which trades and exports Rwandan coffee to international markets, said the partnerships are designed to address persistent challenges in the sector, including uncertain markets, fluctuating prices and financial risks faced by coffee processors.

Company officials said many washing station owners have long struggled to secure reliable buyers for their coffee, often selling under pressure and at unfavorable prices. RWACOF Chief Operating Officer Emmanuel Akiba said the new arrangements are intended to ease that burden.

“Washing station owners were carrying the risk of finding markets on their own,” Akiba said. “This collaboration is expected to remove those obstacles and allow them to focus on quality and professional operations.”

Under the partnerships, RWACOF has committed to purchasing coffee on time and at prices agreed upon by both parties. The company also pledged to accept all coffee that meets required standards and to support transparency and professionalism at the processing level.

Akiba said the initiative is already contributing to improved quality control and more predictable operations across the supply chain. He added that stable partnerships help ensure sustainability for both processors and exporters.

RWACOF said the goal goes beyond commercial cooperation, noting that the company plans to invest in processing facilities, coffee-growing regions and quality assurance systems. It also aims to expand collaboration with more coffee processors and establish long-term partnerships to reduce future risks in the sector.

The company has operated in Rwanda since 1966 and is considered a key player in the country’s coffee industry, supplying specialty coffee to international markets. RWACOF emphasized that strengthening Rwanda’s coffee sector requires cooperation across producers, processors and exporters.

As a partner of global coffee trading firm Sucafina, RWACOF said the new partnerships will further support consistent supply and long-term stability in Rwanda’s coffee market.