Rwanda Ituze Women’s Cooperative, Washed

“Delicious notes of clementines, stone fruits and dark chocolate"

Ituze Women’s Cooperative is a shining example of what can be accomplished when women come together to support each other. They have overcome many challenges, but they have never given up on their dreams and work together to improve their livelihoods and prospects.

The women of Ituze selectively handpick ripe, red cherry and deliver it to Ngamba washing station. At intake, specially trained staff float cherry to remove underripes and then visually inspect cherry and remove any defects. Cherry is pulped and fermented for 10 to 12 hours in fermentation tanks. Following fermentation, parchment is washed in clean water and laid on raised beds to dry. Workers rake parchment frequently to ensure even drying and visually inspect parchment to remove any damaged beans. It takes approximately 21 to 30 days for parchment to dry.

Currently 1kg packs are only available as whole bean.