Established in April 2016, the Rugali Washing Station has quickly become one of Rwanda’s leading specialty coffee hubs, producing around 54,000 kg of milled green coffee annually. Situated in the Nyamasheke District, Rugali benefits from ideal environmental conditions, especially when it comes to drying. Cherries are laid out on raised beds between 12:00 and 15:00, capitalizing on peak sunshine hours for optimal post-pulp drying - an essential step in preserving clarity and sweetness in the final cup.
Despite its short history, Rugali has made a name for itself on the international stage, with coffees featured in global competitions and gaining recognition for putting the Nyamasheke region on the map for high-quality processing.
Located near its sister station Kilimbi, Rugali was one of the first stations in Rwanda to legally export natural and honey processed coffees - a landmark moment for innovation in the country’s coffee sector. Thanks to its high elevation and consistent microclimate, the station is particularly well-suited to these experimental methods, which are still carefully monitored by the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB).
Rugali stands as a shining example of how modern infrastructure, skilled processing, and favorable terroir can produce truly exceptional Rwandan coffees.
