Our Specialty Arabica Coffee

Our Flagship Coffee

Our Washed Arabica Grade 2 is Muungano's historic product, exported since 2011. Collectively processed at our 7 washing stations, this coffee reveals the full aromatic complexity of the Lake Kivu terroir.

The process begins with selective manual picking of ripe cherries. At the station, they are floated and sorted. After pulping, the parchment ferments for approximately 30 hours in tanks, then passes through washing channels. A further 20-hour immersion before 14 days of drying on raised African tables.

Tasting Notes

Natural Arabica — 2024 Record

In 2018, after a first promising trial of just 5 kg, Muungano began producing naturally processed coffee. A consultant brought a first sample to Belgium — the reaction was exceptional.

In July 2024, at the Best of Congo Cooperatives 1st Edition in Copenhagen, our natural coffee reached the record price of $25.79/kg ($11.70/lb) at a silent auction at Assembly Coffee (London). SCA Score: 85.63 points.

The Muungano Women's Cuvée

With the support of the ELAN programme, Muungano launched in 2016 the separate marketing of lots produced exclusively by its women coffee growers. In Eastern Congo, women do the majority of the work in the plantations but it is traditionally the man who controls the income.

Women producers deliver their cherries on dedicated days at the stations. The coffee is processed separately and marketed with a premium of 20 cts/lb managed in full autonomy by the Women's Committee.

"GALS literally changed my life. I get a fixed price for my coffee, plus a second payment. I can now manage my money myself." — Zawadi Kalwira, Muungano Member