Day 19: Congo, Lake Kivu
Day 19 of the RISE Coffee Countdown Calendar - Congo, Lake Kivu
Origin: Congo
Location: Lake Kivu
Altitude: 1,600-2,000 masl
Bean: Arabica
Varietals: Mixed
Process: Washed and sun dried
Tasting notes: Buttery toffee, chocolate and caramel
Here is Alice with a cup of coffee overlooking Congo from the Ugandan border! 
About the coffee:
The region surrounding Lake Kivu has been producing coffee for a long time. In recent years the establishment of cooperatives and mills has seen a significant improvement in the general quality from the DRC. The country has an equatorial climate and the ecosystems and landscapes are diverse and rich. Many of the farms in the region are surrounded by lush mountains, which provide natural shade for the coffee trees.
Farmer spotlight
Nestled on the western shore of Lake Kivu, Muungano Cooperative is an inspiring gem in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s coffee world. Getting there is an adventure in itself—a bumpy, three-hour trek down a dirt road from Goma, past the lively town of Minova, known for its manioc, fish, and those unavoidable “road taxes.” While the journey might jar your nerves (and your suspension), visiting Muungano is absolutely worth every jolt!
Founded in 2009, Muungano embodies its name, which means “Togetherness” in Swahili. This forward-thinking cooperative unites about 4,400 smallholder farmers, with nearly half of them being women. Their mission goes beyond coffee, focusing on gender equity and fostering collaboration across ethnic groups—a rare and vital goal in this region.
Producing coffee in the DRC is no easy feat. Yet Muungano’s members remain optimistic, focused, and resourceful. The results? Sweet, bright, and complex coffees that reflect the passion and perseverance of the farmers.
