The National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB) has unveiled a major initiative to replace aging coffee trees across Rwanda to boost production and enhance industry sustainability.
NAEB reports that Rwanda’s coffee plantations cover 42,229 hectares, but 26.8 percent of these trees are outdated and yield insufficient berries, impacting profitability.
The first phase of the initiative is underway in districts across the Western Province—Karongi, Nyamasheke, and Rusizi—and the Southern Province—Ruhango, Huye, and Nyamagabe.
On August 13, NAEB Chief Executive Officer Claude Bizimana addressed local coffee producers, farmers, and officials in Rubengera Sector, highlighting that the program’s goal is to increase coffee productivity and foster community support for the revitalization of coffee plantations.
The effort to replace aging coffee trees, some of which are up to 20 years old or were planted during the colonial era, is part of a broader strategy to increase coffee production.
The plan aims to restore 1,000 hectares of coffee plantations and replace 3,000 hectares of old trees across 14 districts over the next four years. This initiative is expected to triple the country’s coffee production. For example, while an old coffee tree yields one to two kilograms per season, a rejuvenated tree can produce between 2.5 and 4 kilograms.
In Karongi District, Vice Mayor Theophile Niragire noted that the restoration work has been gradual, depending on available resources, with a goal to restore over 40 hectares of coffee fields.
He added, “Providing seedlings as part of this initiative will support our farmers, who have faced numerous challenges.”
Current data indicates that more than three million coffee trees are cultivated in the region, with 70 percent needing replacement or rehabilitation.
Local farmer Donath Musabimana from the KOPAKAKI cooperative in Rubengera Sector welcomed the move to enhance coffee production. Farmer Alphred Rudahemuka, who manages 800 coffee trees, highlighted ongoing difficulties with fertilizer access and pointed out that older individuals with fewer resources are mainly involved in coffee farming.
In 2023, the country exported approximately 20,000 tonnes of coffee, generating $116 million in revenue.
With global coffee markets closely watching sustainable practices, Rwanda’s efforts could set a precedent for other coffee-producing nations.
