Kageyo

Kageyo Washing Station sits in the lush highlands near Lake Kivu in western Rwanda, where rolling hills and rich volcanic soils create ideal conditions for growing exceptional coffee. Founded in 2009 by a cooperative of smallholder farmers, Kageyo was built so local producers could process their harvests with greater care and precision. Coffee here grows on small family plots between 1,800 and 2,000 meters above sea level, where cool mountain air slows cherry development and helps create the layered sweetness and clarity that make Rwandan coffees so memorable in the cup.

Kageyo’s rise is one of perseverance and pride. In its very first year of operation, the station earned second place in Rwanda’s prestigious Cup of Excellence competition, then claimed the top spot the following year. Even through seasons of low yields and financial strain, the cooperative remained committed to quality. A partnership with Rwanda Trading Company strengthened production and opened doors to global buyers, helping secure long term stability while preserving the co-op structure. Today, Kageyo coffees reflect the dedication of the farming families behind them, offering a cup that is vibrant, balanced, and rooted in the remarkable landscape where it was grown.