DR Congo Kivu Organic RFA Natural - Katana

Brownie, peach, blueberry jelly, heavy body
TOP LOT
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Bag Weight 60 KG BAG
Harvest Season 2023/24
Status Spot
Lot Number P612398-2
  • 149 Bag(s)
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About This Coffee

This Organic and RFA-certified natural-processed 'Kivu 3' lot is from Katana station in South Kivu, one of 8 such stations operated by Virunga Coffee Company, set up by Schluter Ltd. (now Covoya Europe) in 2012 to produce specialty coffees in eastern DRC and improve livelihoods for smallholder farmers in the region.

The Katana area is blessed with abundant rainfall, and the excess water supply ensures ample irrigation for small-holder farmers. Situated at an altitutde of 1693 masl, the coffee in this region benefits from altitude, volcanic soils, and proximitiy to the equator, all contributing factors in its excellent quality. The station processes natural and honey coffee on shaded, raised beds.

Country of Origin Democratic Republic of Congo
Region Kabare, South Kivu
Producer Type Washing Station
Farm Name Various producers
Processing Natural/Dry Processed
Processing Description Sun-dried on raised beds
Growing Altitude 1450m - 1750m
Harvest Season 2023/24
Bag Weight 60 KG BAG
Bag Type Grain Pro / Ecotact
Plant Species Arabica
Variety Typica
Certifications Organic Certified NOP

History of Coffee in DR Congo

Although commercial production of green coffee did not begin in Congo in any meaningful way until the end of the nineteenth century, Robusta has been known to grow wild throughout the region for so long that 100 years ago Robusta was sometimes called “Congo coffee” regardless of where it was grown. In 1895, a well-known botanist, professor Lament, toured the country and declared it so suitable for growing coffee that it could become a “second Brazil," and Arabica plantings increased dramatically. By 1905, half a million coffee plants were under cultivation and exports reached 41 tons. 

Growing Coffee in DR Congo

Traditionally a Robusta producer, in recent years, Arabica from the highland areas has begun to attract attention from specialty coffee roasters. With development commitments from large roasters and quality development assistance from coffee traders like Schluter (now Olam Specialty Coffee Europe), DR Congo is now on the specialty coffee map. Washing stations have appeared in every growing region over the last five years and the country has hosted cupping events. 

  • Region Kabare, South Kivu
  • Farm Name Various producers
  • Producer Type Washing Station
  • Processing Natural/Dry Processed
  • Processing Description Sun-dried on raised beds
  • Bag Type Grain Pro / Ecotact
  • Plant Species Arabica
  • Variety Typica
  • Min Growing Altitude 1450m
  • Max Growing Altitude 1750m
  • On Sale No
  • Top Lot Yes
  • Status Spot
  • Certifications Organic Certified NOP
  • Coffee Grade DRC CA WA KIVU G3
  • CTRM Contract Number P612398-2
  • Country of Origin Democratic Republic of Congo
  • Warehouse Continental NJ