Rwanda's Coffee Wins Six International Awards

Rwanda's coffee has made a significant impact at the ASEAN International Coffee Summit 2026 in Singapore, winning six international awards. Out of 10 coffee samples submitted, six received awards, including three Platinum Awards with scores of 90% or higher, and three Gold Awards with scores between 80% and 89%. The Platinum Award is a prestigious recognition, indicating that the coffee is of the highest quality, also known as "specialty coffee."

The awards were presented at the ASEAN International Coffee Summit 2026, where coffee producers and traders had the opportunity to showcase their products, meet buyers, and explore new markets. The National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB) stated that this achievement demonstrates the progress made in improving coffee quality, from farm to market. NAEB's Chief Executive Officer, Claude Bizimana, emphasized that the awards are a testament to the hard work of farmers, cooperatives, coffee processors, and exporters.

According to Claude Bizimana, the recognition on the international stage highlights the quality and potential of Rwandan coffee. He added that this achievement will motivate stakeholders to continue improving quality, tracking coffee origins, and promoting Rwanda as a country that produces high-quality coffee that competes on the international market. The awards also provide an opportunity for Rwandan coffee producers to access new markets and increase their earnings.

For farmers and cooperatives, the awards are a motivation to continue improving coffee quality and exploring new markets that offer better prices. Aimable Nshimiye, who leads the Abateraninkunga ba Sholi Cooperative in Muhanga District, which received a Platinum Award, stated that the recognition has given them the motivation to continue producing high-quality coffee and expand their cooperative's activities.

The participation in the ASEAN International Coffee Summit 2026 coincided with the signing of a partnership agreement between NAEB and the Singapore Coffee Association. The agreement aims to strengthen cooperation between the coffee industries of both countries and help Rwandan coffee gain a larger market share in Singapore and other ASEAN countries. This partnership is expected to increase the visibility of Rwandan coffee among international buyers, traders, processors, and roasters.

The awards won by Rwanda are expected to enhance the country's reputation as a producer of high-quality coffee and increase its export earnings. Rwanda has set a target of increasing its coffee export earnings to $192 million by 2029. According to NAEB, in the 2025/26 fiscal year, Rwanda exported 23,000 tons of coffee, earning $139.3 million, a 20% increase from $116 million earned in the 2024/25 fiscal year.

The achievement is a significant milestone for Rwanda's coffee industry, which is a major contributor to the country's economy. The industry provides a source of income for thousands of farmers and supports the country's economic growth. With the continued support of stakeholders and the implementation of strategies to improve quality and access new markets, Rwanda's coffee industry is poised for further growth and success.

Key points

• Rwanda's coffee industry wins six international awards at the ASEAN International Coffee Summit 2026 in Singapore.
• The awards include three Platinum Awards and three Gold Awards, recognizing the high quality of Rwandan coffee.
• The achievement is expected to increase Rwanda's coffee export earnings and enhance its reputation as a producer of high-quality coffee.